Where Are They Now: 2023 Student Scholar Cole Epler
Cole Epler
Student, University of Olivet
In this episode, Cole Epler shares his journey from discovering insurance in college to engaging deeply with the industry through leadership, networking and mentorship. He emphasizes the importance of teamwork, aligning personal goals with organizational missions and building relationships for career growth. Cole also discusses innovative solutions for bridging the talent gap, such as AI-driven networking platforms. The episode concludes with advice for aspiring professionals and an invitation to explore PRIMA’s resources for continued learning in risk management.
*The views and opinions expressed in the Public Risk Management Association (PRIMA) blogs/podcasts are those of each respective author/speaker. The views and opinions do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of PRIMA.*
Cole Epler
Student, University of Olivet
Summary of Qualifications
Cole Epler is a 2023 PRIMA Student Conference Scholarship recipient and emerging professional in insurance and risk management. As a dual-degree candidate at The University of Olivet, he is completing both a Bachelor’s in Insurance and Risk Management and an MBA with an emphasis in Insurance in the spring of 2026. Cole maintains an active Michigan Property and Casualty license and is on track to earn the Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU) designation by graduation. His qualifications combine academic rigor, professional credentials, and practical experience in claims adjusting and wholesale brokerage.
Responsibilities
Cole is responsible for upholding the ethical standards of the CPCU society cannons and The University of Olivet Compact.
Business Experience
CRC Group, Wholesale Brokerage Internship
Supported binding authority operations, conducted market research, and assisted with the placement of commercial risks. Collaborated with brokers to evaluate underwriting guidelines and strategies to strengthen carrier relationships.
Hastings Insurance Company, Property Claims Adjuster Internship
Assisted in the investigation and resolution of property claims. Applied policy analysis skills, conducted initial coverage reviews, and engaged in direct communication with insureds and vendors to satisfy obligations.
Professional Affiliations
Spencer Scholars
CPCU Society Member, Mid-Michigan Chapter
AICP Member, Association of Insurance Compliance Professionals
Education
Master of Business Administration, Emphasis in Insurance (Expected Spring 2026)
The University of Olivet, Olivet, Michigan
Bachelor of Arts in Insurance and Risk Management (Expected Spring 2026)
The University of Olivet, Olivet, Michigan
You Might Also Be Interested In
Navigating Workers’ Compensation System Complexities
Jody Moses
Managing Director, Government Solutions, Sedgwick
Lori Newhouse
Vice President Clinical Operations, Sedgwick
In this week’s episode, we chat with Jody Moses and Lori Newhouse about the unique challenges public entities face in workers’ compensation. Key topics include mental and behavioral health, access to care, and budget constraints. The guests introduce the CARE framework—Communication, Advocacy, Responsiveness, and Efficiency—as a practical approach to improve outcomes for injured workers. The conversation highlights the importance of empathy, collaboration, and adaptability in managing claims and supporting public employees through recovery and return-to-work.
*The views and opinions expressed in the Public Risk Management Association (PRIMA) blogs/podcasts are those of each respective author/speaker. The views and opinions do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of PRIMA.*
Jody Moses
Managing Director, Government Solutions, Sedgwick
Lori Newhouse
Vice President Clinical Operations, Sedgwick
Summary of Qualifications
Jody is the managing director of public entities and government solutions at Sedgwick. She has over 30 years of experience in claims administration and risk management, specializing in public entities and risk pools. She manages the development of implementing and managing customized claims solutions that empower public employers and risk pools to protect their colleagues, governing boards, and communities. Jody is a certified workers’ compensation claims adjuster and a licensed general adjuster, holding the Associate in Risk Management (ARM) designation.
Lori has over 35 years of experience in managed care encompassing workers’ compensation, disability management, leave administration, and ADA compliance. As a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) and Certified Case Manager (CCM), Lori has collaborated with numerous employers, aiding in the design, implementation and continuous development of their occupational and non-occupational disability management programs with a specific focus on cost containment and the customization of RTW initiatives.
You Might Also Be Interested In
Tort Reform in the Public Sector
Tamika Puckett
Executive Vice President, Public Sector Practice Leader, Protecdiv, Inc.
In this episode, we chat with Tamika Puckett, Executive Vice President at Protective Inc., on tort reform’s impact on public entities. Tamika explains tort reform, its goals, and effects on cities, schools, and public safety agencies. The conversation covers damage caps, liability rules, third-party litigation funding, and the challenges and unintended consequences of reform. The discussion also explores the role of courts, risk management strategies, and legislative trends, offering practical insights for public sector leaders navigating liability risks and maintaining public trust.
*The views and opinions expressed in the Public Risk Management Association (PRIMA) blogs/podcasts are those of each respective author/speaker. The views and opinions do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of PRIMA.*
Tamika Puckett
Executive Vice President, Public Sector Practice Leader, Protecdiv, Inc.
Summary of Qualifications
She holds a Master of Science in Financial Management from the University of Maryland and a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Georgia State University.
You Might Also Be Interested In
Mirroring Corporate Compliance Impact in Public Environments
Colinda Howard
President, ComplyBrid Consulting, LLC
This week, we chatted with Colinda Howard for an in-depth discussion on resilient compliance programs in the public sector. Colinda shares lessons from Fortune 5 corporations, emphasizing proactive risk governance, perpetual audit readiness, and the importance of leadership and culture. The conversation explores how public agencies can balance efficiency, accountability, and transparency, offering practical strategies for building strong, adaptable compliance programs that maintain public trust and withstand regulatory scrutiny. The episode provides actionable insights for public sector compliance and risk professionals.
*The views and opinions expressed in the Public Risk Management Association (PRIMA) blogs/podcasts are those of each respective author/speaker. The views and opinions do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of PRIMA.*
Colinda Howard
President, ComplyBrid Consulting, LLC
Summary of Qualifications
Colinda Howard is a former attorney, federally trained workplace investigator, and seasoned risk governance strategist with over 20 years of leadership experience across Fortune 5 corporations, federal and local government agencies, and large school districts. She is recognized for building defensible compliance programs, leading high-profile investigations, and coaching leaders to elevate strategy, oversight, and accountability. Colinda blends her legal, compliance, and leadership expertise to help organizations in high-risk, highly regulated environments strengthen resilience, mitigate exposure, and earn public trust.
Business Experience
- International Coaching Federation (ICF)
- National Speakers Association (NSA)
- Center for Houston’s Future Leadership Cohort
Education
- Juris Doctor, Case Western Reserve University School of Law
- Bachelor of Science in Mathematics (Computer Science concentration), North Carolina Central University
You Might Also Be Interested In
Proceed with Caution: Intersection of ADA, FMLA and WC
David Setzkorn
SVP & Workforce Absence & Disability Practice Leader, Sedgwick
In this episode, David Setzkorn discusses how ADA, FMLA, and workers’ compensation intersect in the workplace. In addition, David explains common employer mistakes and the impact of state leave laws. The episode also addresses the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act’s effect on accommodations for pregnant employees. Listeners gain practical guidance on compliance, best practices and resources for navigating these complex, overlapping employee benefits.
*The views and opinions expressed in the Public Risk Management Association (PRIMA) blogs/podcasts are those of each respective author/speaker. The views and opinions do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of PRIMA.*
David Setzkorn
SVP & Workforce Absence & Disability Practice Leader, Sedgwick
Summary of Qualifications
David has over 15 years of experience working for both carriers and brokers as a subject matter expert on leave administration. His experience includes consultation and development of time away from work benefit programs for clients that range from program and policy development, training, benchmarking analysis and ongoing compliance management with state and federal regulations. He is a nationally recognized speaker working with organizations such as Disability Management Education Coalition (DMEC), Integrated Benefits Institute (IBI), Society of Human Resources Management (SHRM) and others to deliver trainings and content regarding FMLA, ADAAA, paid family medical leave, and state and municipal leave programs.
Responsibilities
David is responsible for providing thought leadership in the absence and disability space for Sedgwick as well as supporting both internal and external clients in order to provide best-in-class products and services. He also provides compliance and operational best practices to clients and internal partners.
Business Experience
Prior to joining Sedgwick, David worked for two of the largest insurance carriers, one public traded and one private employer, for over 10 years. He spent 3-1/2 years as the North American practice leader for the 5th largest broker in the world, focusing primarily on U.S. and Canadian clients. David also has 15+ years as a procurement officer working in the hospitality and gaming industries.
Education
David is a graduate of Arizona State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in purchasing and logistics management and an MBA with an emphasis in project management. He also holds a Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU) designation along with multiple certifications in IT and operational management.
You Might Also Be Interested In
Total Worker Health
Sara Gibson
Senior Risk Control Manager, Safety National
In this episode, we chat with Sara Gibson on the concept of Total Worker Health (TWH). Sara explains TWH’s origins, its holistic approach to integrating workplace safety with employee well-being, and practical strategies for implementation, especially in public sector organizations. The conversation covers leadership commitment, worker engagement, confidentiality and program integration, with examples like EAPs, resiliency training, and sleep hygiene. Emphasizing empathy and proactive management, the episode highlights how TWH can create safer, healthier and more supportive workplaces.
*The views and opinions expressed in the Public Risk Management Association (PRIMA) blogs/podcasts are those of each respective author/speaker. The views and opinions do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of PRIMA.*
Sara Gibson
Senior Risk Control Manager, Safety National
Speaker Biography
Sara is Senior Risk Control Manager at Safety National, and is responsible for leading and facilitating risk control services for policyholders, and collaborating to provide resources and expertise to our risk pool clients.
Sara joined Safety National in 2022 as a Senior Risk Control Manager. Prior to joining Safety National, she worked as Manager of Environmental, Health and Safety & Risk at Harper College and at Northwestern University in the Office of Risk Management. Sara is an active member of the American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP).
Education
Northern Illinois University, 2004
--Master of Science in Safety Technology
Illinois State University, 1995
--Bachelor of Science in Environmental, Health, & Safety
You Might Also Be Interested In
Workplace Violence Prevention in Schools
Angela Nagle
School Risk Management Specialist, Public Employer Risk Management Association
In this episode we speak with Angela Nagle about workplace violence prevention in schools. Angela discusses common injuries—especially those involving students with special needs—and highlights effective interventions like targeted staff training, use of personal protective equipment, sensory integration rooms and environmental modifications. The conversation also covers practical budgeting strategies for implementing these safety measures, emphasizing the importance of proactive investment to reduce injuries, improve staff morale and create safer school environments.
*The views and opinions expressed in the Public Risk Management Association (PRIMA) blogs/podcasts are those of each respective author/speaker. The views and opinions do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of PRIMA.*
Angela Nagle
School Risk Management Specialist, Public Employer Risk Management Association
Speaker Biography
Angela Nagle joined PERMA three years ago after retiring from public education in New York State. Angela is a former Superintendent of Schools, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction, Director of Pupil Personnel Services, and teacher.
Responsibilities
Angela provides risk management services to school districts and Board of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES) throughout New York State. With approximately 66% of all staff injuries caused by interactions with special education students, Angela applies her expertise and risk interventions to lower this risk substantially through professional development-school safety trainings, use of personal protective equipment, and sensory integration throughout the school day.
Angela observes classrooms with reported staff injuries and through a process called (RISE) Reducing Injuries in Special Education, lowers staff injuries.
Professional Affiliations
- New York State School Boards Association
- New York State Council of School Superintendents
- AMCOMP
Education
- State University of New York at Albany, Doctorate of Philosophy, Educational Administration and Policy Studies
- College of St. Rose, Masters of Science, Special Education
- Siena College, Bachelor's of Science - Marketing/Management/Business Administration
You Might Also Be Interested In
Special Events: Heat Stress Concerns
Dan Hurley, CSP, ARM-P, MS, MPA
Independent Risk Consultant
In this episode, we speak with Dan Hurley about managing heat stress during outdoor special events. Dan discusses the dangers of extreme heat for participants, volunteers, and attendees at festivals and athletic events, emphasizing the need for comprehensive heat safety plans. He outlines key measures such as water stations, shaded areas, emergency response protocols and flexible event planning. Drawing from personal experiences, Dan highlights practical strategies to reduce heat-related risks and underscores the importance of proactive preparation for safe summer events.
*The views and opinions expressed in the Public Risk Management Association (PRIMA) blogs/podcasts are those of each respective author/speaker. The views and opinions do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of PRIMA.*
Dan Hurley, CSP, ARM-P, MS, MPA
Risk Manager, City of Chesapeake, VA (Ret.)
Dan was the former risk manager for the City of Chesapeake, VA. He also had a long career with the City of Norfolk, VA as a risk manager for the school board and as the safety officer/workers’ compensation specialist for the city. In between the Cities of Chesapeake and Norfolk, Dan had a two-year stint as a practice leader for Midwest Employers Casualty Company working with school districts. Dan is a past president of both national and Virginia PRIMA.
You Might Also Be Interested In
How to Empower Risk Managers by Leveraging AI in Managing Workers’ Compensation Claim
Patty Reinecke
Director of Claim Consults and TPA Relationships, Midwest Employers Casualty
In this episode, we chat with Patty Reinecke and discuss how artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming workers’ compensation claims management. Patty explains key AI concepts—machine learning, deep learning and generative AI—and shares practical examples of AI streamlining data analysis, identifying claim trends and supporting early intervention. She emphasizes that while AI enhances efficiency and insight, human expertise remains essential for nuanced decision-making. The episode highlights AI’s potential to improve outcomes for both employers and injured workers, while acknowledging its limitations and the continued importance of collaboration and empathy in claims management.
*The views and opinions expressed in the Public Risk Management Association (PRIMA) blogs/podcasts are those of each respective author/speaker. The views and opinions do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of PRIMA.*
Patty Reinecke
Director of Claim Consults and TPA Relationships, Midwest Employers Casualty
Summary of Qualifications
Patty Reinecke provides a unique healthcare perspective on the challenges of handling complex workers compensation claims. Patty manages a team of four full-time Client Consult Managers who help clients navigate the intricacies of challenging claims, regardless of the SIR, to get injured employees back to the highest level of function possible. She also works in partnership with the claims administrators who serve MEC clients, offering MEC resources.
Business Experience
• Over 30 years of experience in the workers compensation industry, working at MEC in the excess claim environment for the last 17 years.
• Extensive knowledge of workers compensation regulations and applicable law in multiple jurisdictions.
• Extensive knowledge of insurance contracts and adjusting techniques.
• Proficient with medical terminology, legal procedures, and claim evaluation.
• Proven experience in working collaborating with multiple stakeholders, including carriers, TPAs, providers, and employers.
Professional Affiliations
Certified Case Manager (CCM)
Medicare Set Aside Certified Consultant (MSCC)
Certified Workers’ Compensation Professional (CWCP)
Education
Bachelor of Science in Nursing – 1993 Maryville University
You Might Also Be Interested In
Navigating AI Risk – A Leader’s Guide to Today’s Challenges
Brian Thamm
President, Sophinea Corporation
In this episode, we welcome Brian Thamm to discuss the rapid adoption of AI in enterprises. Brian explores the strategic, operational and reputational risks of AI, emphasizing the importance of strong governance, data quality, employee training, and change management. He offers practical recommendations for organizations to implement AI successfully, highlighting the need for clear strategy, robust oversight and a culture of continuous learning to navigate the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence.
*The views and opinions expressed in the Public Risk Management Association (PRIMA) blogs/podcasts are those of each respective author/speaker. The views and opinions do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of PRIMA.*
Brian Thamm
President, Sophinea Corporation
Brian is the president of Sophinea, a data and analytics company that designs and implements integrated data solutions tailored to the IT infrastructure of customers and offers business consulting services, including designing data strategy road maps. Brian, a Potomac Officers Club member, joined Sophinea in November 2018 after a stint as chief technology officer at One Federal Solution. Prior to joining One Federal Solution, he spent nearly five years at IT services giant CSRA where he served as a principal focused on operations and as an analytics product owner. Brian also previously held various positions at Computer Sciences Corp. before it merged with the enterprise services business of Hewlett-Packard Enterprise to form DXC Technology. At CSC, he served as program analyst, operations manager, and capture and program manager. Brian holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Virginia Commonwealth University and a master’s degree in predictive analytics from Northwestern University.