From Underdog to NFL Icon: Hall of Famer Headlines CIWA's 2025 Summer Forum
The California Insurance Wholesalers Association (CIWA) has announced NFL Hall of Famer and Super Bowl Champion Kurt Warner as the featured speaker for its highly anticipated Summer Forum 2025. The organization promotes the value of wholesale insurance distribution, represents members’ interests in the regulatory and legislative arena, and ensures a competitive insurance market for California businesses and consumers.
The educational and networking summit will be held from July 20-22 at the Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa in Monterey Bay. The event will be capped off by a fireside chat with the NFL legend during the Gala Dinner.
Undrafted out of Northern Iowa in 1994, Warner toiled in obscurity, stocking shelves at a grocery store and playing in the Arena Football League and NFL Europe before getting his break. In 1998, he joined the St. Louis Rams, and by 1999, he became the starter, leading the “Greatest Show on Turf” offense. That year, he threw for 4,353 yards and 41 touchdowns, earning NFL MVP and Super Bowl XXXIV MVP honors as the Rams won the championship.
Nationwide E&S and Wholesure Insurance Solutions are making the event possible. Warner will share reflections on his improbable journey and the lessons he learned, aiming to inspire others to overcome even in the face of adversity.
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David Nelson from Nationwide E&S remarked, “We are thrilled to partner with CIWA in bringing Kurt Warner’s motivational insights to Summer Forum. His compelling message aligns perfectly with our commitment to supporting professionals who continually strive for excellence in their fields.”
“We are honored to host Kurt Warner at this year’s Summer Forum and continue CIWA’s tradition of featuring high-quality speakers,” John Donahue of Wholesure and CIWA’s Immediate Past President added.
Current CIWA President Yana Connors stated, “With Nationwide E&S and Wholesure’s generous sponsorship, we’re excited to deliver an unforgettable experience for this year’s attendees.”
Off the field, Warner’s faith and philanthropy shine. He runs the First Things First Foundation with his wife, Brenda, supporting needy families. His story of perseverance was also showcased in the 2021 film "American Underdog". Warner remains a beloved figure in American sports, inspiring countless audiences with his resilient message.
Unlock your event’s potential by bringing in Kurt Warner as your keynote speaker! Don’t miss the opportunity to inspire your audience—Contact Athlete Speakers today for more information, or fill out our Online Booking Request Form. Let us leverage our 25 years of industry-leading experience to secure the perfect sports talent for your next event!
