About
The Insurance Agents of Palm Beaches (IAPB) is a non-profit organization dedicated to serving insurance agents in the Palm Beaches area of Florida.
Its primary aim is to provide a platform for agents to stay informed about the latest developments in insurance policies and regulations. Through regular gatherings, meetings, and engaging activities, IAPB fosters a sense of community among its members, offering a supportive environment where agents can exchange ideas, network, and access valuable resources. Acting as a safe haven for non-agency insurance agents, IAPB ensures that individuals feel included and supported within a cohesive group, ultimately enhancing their professional growth and camaraderie within the industry.
- Board of Directors
- President
Lori J Sousa, CMIP
Sea Land Insurance Boynton Beach
Lori Sousa is a second-generation insurance agent with over 28 years in the industry. Having spent her entire career in the South Florida area, she has a unique understanding of the coastal issues and the placement of difficult risks. Ms. Sousa has experience as a company underwriter working in the workers compensation space as well as serving as the lead underwriter in the development of a Dive Boat program for the Marine Industry.
- Vice President
Alice Encarnacion
GreatFlorida Insurance Owner | Agent
Alice Encarnacion boasts a 30-year tenure as an Insurance Agent in Florida. With 15 years of experience as an Office Manager at State Farm in Boca Raton, FL, followed by 3 years as an Allstate Agency Owner in Coral Springs, FL, Alice brings a wealth of expertise to the table. Presently, she has been the proud owner of a GreatFlorida Insurance Boynton Beach, FL, for 11 years. Holding certifications as a 220 Agent and a 215 Life/Health Agent, Alice is well-equipped to serve her clients effectively.
- Secretary
Jennifer Thompson CPRIA, AIAM
Gracey Backer Insurance Delray Beach
Jennifer Thompson is a Personal Lines Department Manager with over 20+ years of experience in the insurance Industry and holding both 2-20 and 2-15 licenses. Her primary focus is on High-Net-Worth clients all over the country. Born in South Florida, graduating from Palm Beach State College – Cum Laude receiving her bachelor’s degree in business administration and management. She has enjoyed working in personal lines for many years, helping individuals with their insurance needs.
- Treasurer
Amanda Cole
Protective Choice West Palm Beach
Amanda Cole is the Owner and Principal Agent of Protective Choice Insurance. She is a seasoned professional in the Mortgage and Insurance industry, boasting over 15 years of valuable experience. Holding both 2-20 and 2-15 licenses demonstrates her comprehensive expertise in insurance, covering various lines. While Amanda’s proficiency spans across the insurance spectrum, her agency, Protective Choice, places a particular emphasis on personal lines. This specialization underscores her commitment to providing tailored solutions to individuals seeking insurance coverage in a challenging insurance market.
- President
Lori J Sousa, CMIP
Sea Land Insurance Boynton Beach
Lori Sousa is a second-generation insurance agent with over 28 years in the industry. Having spent her entire career in the South Florida area, she has a unique understanding of the coastal issues and the placement of difficult risks. Ms. Sousa has experience as a company underwriter working in the workers compensation space as well as serving as the lead underwriter in the development of a Dive Boat program for the Marine Industry.
- Secretary
Jennifer Thompson CPRIA, AIAM
Gracey Backer Insurance Delray Beach
Jennifer Thompson is a Personal Lines Department Manager with over 20+ years of experience in the insurance Industry and holding both 2-20 and 2-15 licenses. Her primary focus is on High-Net-Worth clients all over the country. Born in South Florida, graduating from Palm Beach State College – Cum Laude receiving her bachelor’s degree in business administration and management. She has enjoyed working in personal lines for many years, helping individuals with their insurance needs.
- Treasurer
Amanda Cole
Protective Choice West Palm Beach
Amanda Cole is the Owner and Principal Agent of Protective Choice Insurance. She is a seasoned professional in the Mortgage and Insurance industry, boasting over 15 years of valuable experience. Holding both 2-20 and 2-15 licenses demonstrates her comprehensive expertise in insurance, covering various lines. While Amanda’s proficiency spans across the insurance spectrum, her agency, Protective Choice, places a particular emphasis on personal lines. This specialization underscores her commitment to providing tailored solutions to individuals seeking insurance coverage in a challenging insurance market.
- Vice President
Alice Encarnacion
GreatFlorida Insurance Owner | Agent
Alice Encarnacion boasts a 30-year tenure as an Insurance Agent in Florida. With 15 years of experience as an Office Manager at State Farm in Boca Raton, FL, followed by 3 years as an Allstate Agency Owner in Coral Springs, FL, Alice brings a wealth of expertise to the table. Presently, she has been the proud owner of a GreatFlorida Insurance Boynton Beach, FL, for 11 years. Holding certifications as a 220 Agent and a 215 Life/Health Agent, Alice is well-equipped to serve her clients effectively.
History
In 1919, a group of visionaries sought a new and evolved model of education, one providing the intellectual and creative freedom to tackle the most pressing issues of the day.
Mission
To empower and unite insurance agents in the Palm Beaches, the Insurance Agents of Palm Beaches (IAPB) strives to provide a supportive community where members can access resources, stay informed about industry developments, and foster professional growth. Through collaborative initiatives, educational opportunities, and networking events, we aim to elevate the standards of insurance practice while promoting camaraderie and mutual support among our members.
Vision
At the Insurance Agents of Palm Beaches (IAPB), we envision a dynamic and inclusive community where insurance agents thrive professionally, equipped with the knowledge, resources, and connections to excel in their roles. By fostering a culture of continuous learning, innovation, and collaboration, we aspire to be the leading force in shaping the future of insurance in the Palm Beaches region, driving positive change, and making a meaningful impact on the lives of our members and the communities we serve.
Emma Matthews
BA Literary Studies
“For me, it’s about the academic sphere. The University is interesting, conceptual. We acknowledge how important it is to be experimental.”