Erie Insurance congratulates agent Angela Ripley as chair of the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America

Erie Insurance congratulates agent Angela Ripley as chair of the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America

September 29, 2025

Ripley is the second woman to serve as Big "I" chair, which represents over 25,000 agencies across the nation

Erie Insurance (ERIE) agent Angela Ripley, president of VW Brown Insurance Service in Columbia, Md. was recently installed as the 2025-2026 chair of the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (the Big "I"). Founded in 1896, the Big "I" is the nation's oldest and largest national association of independent insurance agents and brokers representing more than 25,000 agency locations nationwide.

VW Brown Insurance Service has represented Erie Insurance since 1960. As a highly respected independent agent with more than 25 years of experience, Ripley was installed as chair during the Big "I" Fall Leadership Conference in Nashville. She becomes only the second woman to hold the role in the association's history.

"I am committed to continuing the important work of supporting agents through innovation, inclusion and advocacy," Ripley said. "I am honored to work together with Big 'I' state associations and members across the country to not only address today's challenges but to build a future that's resilient and full of opportunity."

"Angela's leadership, professionalism and tireless dedication to the independent agency system are truly inspiring," said Brian McConnell, senior district sales manager for ERIE's Silver Spring Branch Office. "Her ability to balance business growth with a genuine commitment to her clients and community sets an example for us all."

"Angela has been a trusted ERIE agent and advocate for the independent agency model for many years," said Kris Marrion, vice president and Silver Spring branch manager. "Her installation as chair is a well-deserved recognition of her vision, influence and unwavering support of the industry."

Throughout her career, Ripley has served in numerous industry leadership positions, including chair of Big I Maryland, InsurPac chair for Maryland, chair of the Big "I" Government Affairs Committee and served as a member of the Federal Reserve Board's Insurance Policy Advisory Committee.

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