Randy Goodman’s keynote speech at the National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA’s) 75th Anniversary Celebration was more than just a ceremonial reflection on an organizational milestone. He made a speech that was a heartfelt journey through the struggles, triumphs, and unwavering dedication that have defined the public adjusting profession for three-quarters of a century. I want to share some of my notes and thoughts about the highlights of his speech, which you can read in full at this link.
Standing before a room filled with colleagues and friends, Goodman traced the roots of NAPIA back to the vision of his grandfather, Will Goodman, who in 1949 set out to unite public adjusters under one national banner. It was a time when the profession lacked cohesion, and ethical standards were inconsistent. Many in the insurance industry viewed public adjusters with suspicion and questioned whether public adjusting should even be allowed. Will Goodman recognized that the only way to elevate those engaged with public adjusting was to organize, establish a code of ethics, and present a unified voice to face the challenges that were certainly coming.
The formation of NAPIA was not without resistance. When the first convention was held in 1951, bringing together 54 public adjusters from 35 firms, there were many who questioned the value of such a gathering, and some refused to participate if competitors were invited. Yet, those who came understood the significance of building something larger than themselves. They wanted a community bound by shared principles and a commitment to protect policyholders. I felt that Randy Goodman’s recounting of NAPIA’s early days highlighted that the organization’s survival and growth depended on overcoming not just external obstacles, but internal divisions and views from public adjusters who were to be members.
Through the decades, NAPIA has faced numerous crises. Goodman highlighted pivotal moments, such as the unprecedented joint venture after Hurricane Celia in 1970, when firms set aside competition to work together for the benefit of storm victims. He spoke of the legal battles fought to protect the right of public adjusters to operate, including the case against the Nueces County Bar Association, which affirmed that their work did not constitute the unauthorized practice of law. Perhaps most inspiring was the story of the fight following Hurricane Andrew in the 1990s, when NAPIA challenged Florida’s restriction against non-resident public adjusters, ultimately winning a constitutional victory that ensured fair access and reinforced the principle that public adjusters everywhere deserve the right to serve policyholders in need.
Goodman’s address was also a tribute to the many individuals and partners who have strengthened NAPIA over the years. From educators who advanced professional training, to executive directors and legislative advocates who steered the organization through political and legal minefields, to the vendors and consultants who have stood by the association, his words conveyed a deep sense of gratitude. He was particularly generous in recognizing his brother, Brian Goodman, whose legislative and legal work resulted in new licensing laws, model legislation, and important court victories that continue to safeguard the public adjusting profession.
What made the speech especially moving was its reflection on NAPIA’s legacy of leadership, including the generational thread that runs through its history. Nine father-child pairs, including three daughters, have served as presidents, along with four women who have led the organization with distinction.
Goodman closed by returning to his grandfather’s words from NAPIA’s first meeting, a reminder that the work of public adjusters is not just for personal success but for building a profession that future generations can inherit with pride. In an era when the industry still faces threats from hostile legislation, ethical attacks, and legal challenges, Goodman’s message was clear that the unity, ethics, and collective will that formed NAPIA in 1951 remain as vital today as they were seventy-five years ago. For those interested in Will Goodman’s philosophy about public adjusting, I would suggest reading my post, “The Public Adjuster” — An Article Every Public Adjuster Should Be Required To Read.
Woven throughout Goodman’s speech was the shared struggles of every public adjuster who has ever fought to protect policyholders. The speech was a celebration not only of how far the profession has come, but of the enduring spirit that will carry it forward. By honoring the past, he reminded everyone in the room that the fight for a fair, ethical, and respected profession is ongoing. The strength of NAPIA lies in the steadfast commitment of its members to stand together for the greater good and the good of policyholders whom they represent.
Thought For The Day
“One of the heaviest responsibilities of the insurance business is the fair, reasonable and equitable adjustments of fire loss claims. A satisfied claimant is the best advertisement an insurance company can have….”
—Will Goodman
#Randy #Goodman #History #Public #Adjusting #NAPIA