NASBP entered January with a sold-out William J. Angell Surety School poised to make history. For the first time ever, NASBP offered Commercial Surety Levels I and II alongside Contract Surety Levels I and II at the same Winter Surety School—making it one of the largest NASBP Surety School offerings since the program began in 1973.
But just as the Surety School was set to begin in Southlake, Texas, Winter Storm Fern unleashed ice and snow across a vast stretch of land—from Northern Mexico through the Southern and Northeastern United States and into Canada. Airports closed intermittently for several days, including nearby DFW, disrupting travel plans nationwide.
Illustration created using artificial intelligence (OpenAI DALL·E), art direction by NASBP
Yet, much like the familiar motto, “Neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night…,” the surety community showed up!
Despite the storm’s impact, 135 dedicated students gathered in Southlake to kick off the new year immersed in contract and commercial surety education. What could have been a setback instead became a testament to the resilience, professionalism, and commitment that define the surety industry.
Celebrating Excellence: Most Outstanding Pupils
A hallmark of every NASBP Surety School session is the recognition of a Most Outstanding Pupil (MOP) from each team. Nominated by their peers, these individuals embody leadership, collaboration, and mastery of the curriculum. Each recipient is awarded a commemorative football signed by classmates and faculty—a tradition symbolizing teamwork and shared success.
This year’s honorees included:
Jacob Marder of AmTrust Financial Services, Inc. – Contract Surety Level I, Red Team
MOP Award Winner Jacob Marder of AmTrust Financial Services, Inc. with NASBP Faculty and Leadership, from left, Matt Cashion, Corey Fayette, Michael Baxter, Robert Coon, Nathan Wonder, and Stefan Engelhardt.
Sara Iuzzolino (not pictured) of Crum & Forster – Contract Surety Level I, Yellow Team
The signed football for MOP Award Winner Sara Iuzzolino of Crum & Forster.
Clark Parr of Swingle Collins & Associates – Contract Surety Level II, Blue Team
MOP Award Winner Clark Parr of Swingle Collins & Associates with NASBP Faculty and Leadership, from left, Tom Padilla, Michael Baxter, Nathan Wonder, Monica Donatelli, Mark McCallum, Chris Downey, and Sheila Thompson.
Jake Ronning of UGF – Contract Surety Level II, Green Team
MOP Award Winner Jake Ronning of UGF with NASBP Faculty and Leadership, from left, Michael Baxter, Matt Cashion, Nathan Wonder, Monica Donatelli, Mark McCallum, Chris Downey, and Sheila Thompson.
Noa Francesch Huc of AXA XL – Commercial Surety Level I
MOP Award Winner Noa Francesch Huc of AXA XL with NASBP Faculty and Leadership, from left, Jeff Broyles, Robin Amstutz, Michael Baxter, Robert Coon, and Nathan Wonder.
Tanya Chinchilla of EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants – Commercial Surety Level II
MOP Award Winner Tanya Chinchilla of EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants with NASBP Faculty and Leadership, from left, Stefan Engelhardt, Nathan Wonder, Michael Baxter, Robin Amstutz, Monica Donatelli, Mark McCallum, Chris Downey, and Sheila Thompson.
NASBP congratulates these exceptional students and celebrates the spirit of excellence demonstrated by all participants.
A Community That Shows Up
More than ever, NASBP extends its deepest appreciation to the members and affiliates who volunteered their time and expertise to teach at this year’s School. Many arrived early, navigating airline cancellations, delays, icy roads, and even unexpected travel mishaps to ensure the next generation of bond producers and underwriters received the education they deserve.
Their dedication reflects something larger than a single event—it reflects a collective commitment to strengthening the surety industry and investing in its future leaders.
When the storm hit, surety showed up.
Looking Ahead: Summer 2026 in Cleveland
Momentum continues this summer as NASBP prepares for the 2026 Summer Surety School in Cleveland, Ohio. The Surety School will once again offer a historic lineup of courses: Contract Surety Levels I, II, and III as well as Commercial Surety Levels I and II!
Registration opens in late February for NASBP Members, Affiliates, and Associates.
If this winter proved anything, it’s that the surety community is built not only on expertise—but on commitment. We look forward to welcoming the next class of students this summer as we continue building knowledge and a stronger surety industry together.
To those who were unable to attend this winter, we look forward to seeing you this summer in Cleveland!
Get Important Surety Industry News & Info
Keep up with the latest industry news and NASBP programs, events, and activities by subscribing to NASBP SmartBrief.
