SFAA Foundation: Expanding Access to the Surety & Fidelity Industry

The Surety & Fidelity Association of America (SFAA) Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization, was established to expand the pipeline of qualified applicants and increase access to career opportunities within the surety and fidelity industry. SFAA, along with its member companies, recognizes the value of a workplace where all individuals have an opportunity to participate and succeed.

By broadening access to individuals with a variety of experiences and backgrounds, the industry creates the next generation of industry leaders.  

The Foundation’s Purpose

To support the educational and professional development of individuals pursuing—or currently engaged in—careers in the surety and fidelity industry.

Effectively establish a path within the surety and fidelity industry that creates viable and rewarding career paths while recognizing companies that have made meaningful contributions toward expanding and growing the industry.

Mission Statement

The SFAA Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization, is dedicated to advancing and expanding access in the surety and fidelity industry.

Established by member companies of The Surety & Fidelity Association of America (SFAA), the Foundation funds and administers the Surety and Fidelity Industry Intern and Scholarship Program, which increases awareness and access for college students.

Surety & Fidelity Intern and Scholarship Program

The Surety and Fidelity Intern & Scholarship Program was established to encourage college students to explore careers in the surety and fidelity industry. The program provides students with paid, professional internship opportunities at member organizations, along with valuable experience alongside industry experts.

Upon successful completion of an internship, students are eligible to apply for academic scholarships.

Donate to the SFAA Foundation

The SFAA Foundation is funded through contributions from four primary sources: surety and fidelity industry companies (both underwriters and agents/brokers), other companies and organizations outside the industry, individuals, and local surety associations.

Tax-deductible donations support the Surety and Fidelity Intern & Scholarship Program, which provides internship and educational opportunities to students interested in a vital sector of the economy.

Contractor Bonding Education and Mentoring Program

The Contractor Bonding Education and Mentoring Program, formerly known as the Model Contractor Development Program, helps new and minority contractors learn how to become bonded and provides additional coaching through a mentoring program with SFAA and NASBP.

Board of Trustees

Larry Taylor

SFAA Foundation President and President, Merchants Bonding Company Group

Bryce Grissom

SFAA Foundation Vice Chair and Commercial Surety Senior Vice President, Travelers Bond and Specialty Insurance

Tony Albanese

SFAA Foundation Trustee and Head of Surety, Nationwide

Mike Zurcher

SFAA Foundation Trustee and Executive Vice President, Surety, IAT Insurance Group

Chris Sivak

SFAA Foundation Trustee and Managing Director, The Hartford

Ohi Omoruan

SFAA Foundation Trustee and Vice President – Surety Plus, Liberty Mutual Surety

Ryan C. Work

SFAA Foundation Trustee and President & CEO, SFAA

Cindi Streblo

Surety Talent & Business Development Leader at Westfield

Dawn Nevill

Senior Vice President-CUO Contract Surety, Arch Insurance Group Inc.