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About Us

Learn about NAAIA’s mission, values, and history. Dive deeper into our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the insurance industry.

Our Mission & Philosophy

Our Mission

Our mission is to empower Black professionals in the insurance industry by providing unparalleled educational resources, invaluable mentorship opportunities, robust networking, and recognition of industry achievements. We are committed to fostering professional development and community outreach, creating a supportive environment where our members can thrive and excel.

Our Philosophy

NAAIA is rooted in the belief that diversity strengthens the insurance industry. We are committed to empowering Black professionals by providing a supportive environment where education, mentorship, and networking flourish. Our philosophy centers on fostering growth, celebrating achievements, and driving systemic change to create a more inclusive and equitable industry. We strive to cultivate a community that values representation, professional development, and the advancement of underrepresented talent. At NAAIA, we believe in the transformative power of connection and leadership in shaping a brighter future for all.

Our Mission & Philosophy

A Legacy of Leadership, Empowerment, and Impact

NAAIA Portland History

NAAIA Portland is part of a long-standing movement to create space, voice, and opportunity for Black professionals in insurance. While our chapter is newly established, we are grounded in the mission and momentum of the national organization. Our history is one of resilience, ambition, and leadership. We stand on the shoulders of those who paved the way—trailblazers who challenged industry norms, built thriving careers, and opened doors for future generations.

You’re Not Alone with NAAIA Portland

Across the country, professionals just like you are part of a growing NAAIA network committed to excellence, inclusion, and transformation. Whether you’re launching your career, pivoting into new roles, or mentoring others, NAAIA is here to walk with you.

Whats Next for Portland

Our Chapter is just getting started. With launch events, new programs, and community partnerships on the horizon, there are many ways to get involved. Whether you want to attend an event, join the board, become a member, or partner with us, this site is your hub for connection and next steps.

Visit our events page to see what’s coming up, explore open board positions, join as a member through NAAIA.org, or see our latest news to stay informed and engaged.

Our History

NAAIA Portland
Executive Board

Our chapter is led by a committed executive board focused on growth, strategy, and community impact. Meet the leaders shaping our work, and explore open roles if you’re ready to lead with purpose.

Become a Board Member

Catherine
Brown

President
About Me

Catherine
Brown

President

Board Member

Catherine Brown is a Managing Director and Senior Client Executive in the National Brokerage division based in the Portland, Oregon office, focusing on originating and delivering risk management and insurance brokerage account services and developing risk solutions for public and private clients. She is a senior advisor with specialized expertise in the retail wholesale, automotive, manufacturing, aviation, public entity, non-profit, and education industry sectors.

Her emphasis and special expertise include insurance brokerage, public entity and multinational risk management, alternative risk financing, captive insurance program management, contract review and risk analysis, and casualty claims management, including police professional and employment discrimination case investigation and adjudication. She also specializes in owner-controlled insurance programs, risk control, analysis, financing, cost allocation, and global risk management. Catherine serves as senior client executive on corporate and large publicly traded, private company, public entity, and multinational accounts.

Catherine joined Marsh in 2005 as a sales producer in the Portland, Oregon office. She later joined Asbury Automotive Group Oregon, one of the largest automotive retail and service companies in the U.S., where she was VP Executive Director of Human Resources & Diversity. Before that, Catherine’s extensive experience includes 20 years designing, leading, and managing risk management corporate functions and insurance programs for several large Oregon public entities, including the City of Eugene, Lane County, Port of Portland, and Oregon Health & Science University. She also served in the private sector as Associate Director and Global Risk Manager for Nike in the U.S. and Europe, rolling out Nike’s risk management programs and traveling to or working in over 20 countries worldwide.

Catherine lives in Portland, Oregon. She is a mother of a grown, married son and has two granddaughters who live in Tampa, Florida. She was raised in an Air Force military family, born in Chiseldon, UK, and holds dual citizenship. She serves as National Co-Chair for Marsh’s African Heritage Colleague Resource Group, is part of Marsh’s National Colleague Resource Group leadership team, and contributes to the PNW I&D CRG and Women’s Exchange. She was also recognized on Insurance Business America’s (IBA) Elite Women 2022 list.

Catherine is an ordained Baptist minister, preacher, teacher, and business manager at her local church. She enjoys recreational mountain climbing—having summited both Middle and South Sister mountains in the Cascade Volcanic Arc—and her favorite comfort foods are French fries with mayo, Fritos corn chips with warm red licorice, and a strong cup of coffee. Her claim to fame includes being a junior Olympic high jump champion as a child and, as an adult, riding a camel outside of Jericho and floating in the Dead Sea.

Mike
Harper Jr.

Vice President
About Me

Mike
Harper Jr.

Vice President

Board Member

Sr. Claim Resolution specialist. Made extensive positive impact in a short period of time within the commercial claim organization including working on Catastrophe claims , along with training individuals providing sources of efficiency. My analytical problem-solving abilities combined with strengths in collaborating across diverse groups, makes me a valuable addition as a Claims Manager

Felicia
Fasiku

Treasurer
About Me

Felicia
Fasiku

Treasurer

Board Member

I’m an insurance professional and dynamic leader in the DEI space, with over 8 years of experience across life insurance, banking, and workers’ compensation. I currently serve as an Underwriter II at SAIF Corporation, Oregon’s not-for-profit workers’ compensation insurer, where I blend technical precision with a passion for inclusive leadership.

I began my career as a life insurance producer, building a solid foundation in client advocacy and financial protection. My journey has included roles in banking and billing, before finding my niche in workers’ compensation underwriting. Known for my critical thinking, adaptability, and strong agent relationships, I strive to make insurance accessible, effective, and equitable.

Beyond underwriting, I lead with purpose as Chair of THRIVE, SAIF’s BIPOC Employee Resource Group. In this role, I drive initiatives that amplify underrepresented voices, create pathways for professional growth, and foster a culture of belonging.

As a mentor and Pathfinder, I am committed to empowering undervalued talent and shaping more inclusive workplaces in the insurance industry.

Kevin
Barrett

Secretary
About Me

Kevin
Barrett

Secretary

Board Member

Kevin Barrett has been specializing in workers’ compensation since 2008, first as a trial attorney representing employers, and since 2019 as Assistant General Counsel supporting executive leadership. In this role, he indirectly leads teams and projects, collaborating with diverse stakeholders to improve processes and policies that create effective solutions for SAIF employees, policyholders, and their workers.

Kevin has been a member of the Oregon State Bar since 2009. He graduated with a BS in Biology in 2006 from Portland State University and earned his JD from Willamette University in 2009. Kevin obtained the AIDA credential in 2023 and his CPCU credential in 2024.

Our Officers

Committee Chairs

Our committee chairs turn ideas into action. They lead outreach, plan programs, grow membership, and create spaces where professionals feel seen, supported, and connected.

If you’re passionate about contributing your time and talent, consider applying for a leadership role that aligns with your strengths.

Become a Board Member

Greg
Starr

Member Chair
About Me

Greg
Starr

Member Chair

Board Member

Greg Starr is a lifelong resident of Oregon’s Willamette Valley, having settled in Salem/Keizer in 1990 after graduating from the University of Oregon. He is a husband to his best friend, Shaney Starr, and the proud father of three adult daughters. Greg has been in the insurance industry for over 35 years, including 31 years with Liberty Mutual Insurance Company, where he currently serves as a Regional Claim Manager overseeing commercial accounts. Throughout his career in P&C claims, Greg has managed and handled nearly every type of claim, thriving on the investigative and analytical challenges that come with the role. He values the leadership and people development aspects of his work, along with supporting policyholders and agent/broker partners.

Greg is an active member of the Oregon Chapter of Certified Property Casualty Underwriters (CPCU) and serves on the board of the National African American Insurance Association’s (NAAIA) Portland Chapter. He also participates in internal Employee Resource Groups at Liberty Mutual, where he provides leadership and mentoring support. Greg joined NAAIA in March 2022 to support his friend and colleague Peter “PC” Carter, President of the Denver Chapter, and has enjoyed being part of the organization ever since. He is deeply committed to promoting inclusion, equity, and diversity within the P&C industry as a means of giving back.

Beyond his professional life, Greg donates platelets to the Red Cross, volunteers on the crisis lines for Lines for Life in Portland, and serves as a lay leader in his church. He enjoys spending time outdoors, being with family—including his parents in Keizer—and staying active through jujitsu and kettlebell training.

Greg is also an avid reader, finding inspiration in The Bible and Earl Nightingale’s The Essence of Success.

Dustin
Karstetter

Programs Chair
About Me

Dustin
Karstetter

Programs Chair

Board Member

Sr. Risk Management Consultant Dustin Karstetter joined CIS in 2024, bringing 15 years of insurance and risk management experience, including over 8 years in the public sector serving various governmental entities. His career includes roles as a Risk Management Analyst at Washington County and as a Return-To-Work Consultant with the Special Districts Association of Oregon (SDAO).

Dustin holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Management and an MBA in Business Administration from Corban University. He also serves on the board of directors for Oregon PRIMA, currently as Chapter Vice President, where he helps provide educational and networking opportunities for the public sector risk management community across Oregon.

In his limited “free” time, Dustin enjoys spending time with his family and staying physically active—something that comes naturally with three growing boys who love sports, especially soccer, and of course, plenty of roughhousing!

Your
Name

Agent Chair
About Me

First
Last Name

Agent Chair

Board Member

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Phyllis
Smith

Marketing/PR Chair
About Me

Phyllis
Smith

Marketing/PR Chair

Board Member

I am an insurance industry professional and leader with over 35 years of experience working with insurance carriers and agencies, bringing extensive operational and underwriting expertise across Commercial Lines, Financial Lines, and Personal Lines. I lead cross-functional teams while adhering to agency and state compliance guidelines, analyzing service metrics for staff utilization and cost efficiencies, and providing tools and resources to accelerate growth. I have been an implementer of change and best practices through proactive adaptation, leading efforts to optimize performance, drive efficiencies, and eliminate redundancies.

My experience in Operations Management includes over 16 years as Regional Operations Manager at Chubb Group, and I currently serve as Regional Operations Manager at AAA Insurance. In these roles, I have collaborated with senior leadership to establish and monitor key performance standards for the organization, while developing and mentoring high-performing teams aligned with strategic priorities.

At AAA Oregon/Idaho, I am a leader on the DEIB Employee Resource Group. In this role, I represent the BIPOC voice for AAA Oregon and Idaho and have been instrumental in advancing the organization’s work and commitment to foster a culture of belonging. I also help create opportunities for team members to connect and engage in other ERGs and within the broader community.

In my spare time, I enjoy watching football and basketball, spending time with my husband, grandkids, and the family dog. I am also passionate about music and serve as a musician and music director at my church.

Your
Name

Emerging Leaders Chair
About Me

First
Last Name

Emerging Leaders Chair

Board Member

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Michael
Harper Sr.

Nominations & Elections Chair
About Me

Michael
Harper Sr.

Nominations & Elections Chair

Board Member

I opened my agency in 1991 and have been proudly serving customers ever since. I am licensed to assist clients with their insurance needs in both Oregon and Washington.

I am a highly accomplished individual, recognized for my diverse achievements and dedication to community service. I graduated from North Park University in Chicago, IL, in 1980 with a Bachelor’s degree in Economics. Before beginning my insurance career, I had the privilege of being part of the Portland Professional Basketball team.

Beyond my professional career, I am deeply engaged in education and community development. I serve as a Member of the Trustee Board at North Park University and am the proud founder of the Grassharper Foundation—a nonprofit organization devoted to supporting children, families, and the community at large.

Through my work, leadership, and service, I strive to make a lasting positive impact and inspire others to do the same.

Colette
Woods

At-Large Board Member
About Me

Colette
Woods

At-Large Board Member

Board Member

I am an insurance professional with Standard Insurance Company in Portland, Oregon, serving as a Business Systems Analyst. My insurance experience spans over 10 years and includes analyzing departmental business needs and gathering critical information for both internal and external stakeholders.

With a deep knowledge of annuity products, I oversee business processes, collaborate across teams, and make informed decisions to improve work efficiency. My primary responsibilities include enhancing business processes through assessments, strategic advice, development, and process improvements, as well as troubleshooting system issues.

I work directly with project managers, insurance agencies, and distributors to solve complex business problems, while also designing and implementing system improvements. I specialize in translating technical requirements into effective software solutions.

In my spare time, I enjoy watching and attending basketball games, learning new cooking recipes, and spending time with my 15-year-old son and family.

Your
Name

At-Large Board Member
About Me

First
Last Name

At-Large Board Member

Board Member

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At Large Board Members

Frequently Asked Questions

How would you define the makeup of NAAIA’s membership and partners?

NAAIA boasts over 2,500 members and partners with influential associations that drive our industry’s success on local, regional, national, and global levels. Our collaborations with carriers, brokerages, agencies, and strategic alliances ensure mutual success by achieving shared goals, benefiting individuals, businesses, and communities alike. With a presence in twenty-five states and growing, NAAIA’s footprint extends across every major region of the country.

Who are NAAIA’s constituents?

NAAIA’s membership includes newcomers, emerging leaders, experienced staff and executives. NAAIA membership is diverse, comprising individuals from various positions and roles such as insurance agents, brokers, insurers, underwriters, claim adjusters, recruiters, legal and financial professionals, and more.

Is NAAIA exclusively for Independent Agents?

No, NAAIA is not exclusive to any one industry segment. NAAIA engages, encourages and supports any and all insurance career professionals, be they employed, unemployed or retired, in industry-related fields, or students interested in insurance.

How Can I Become a Member of NAAIA?

Becoming a member of NAAIA is easy! Visit our Membership Page for more detailed information. Join Us and become part of a vibrant community of Black and African American insurance professionals!

How Can I Attend NAAIA’s National Conference?

Participating in NAAIA’s annual National Conference is a fantastic opportunity to network and learn from industry leaders. Visit our Events Page for information.

What Are the Benefits of Membership?

NAAIA offers networking opportunities, access to insurance education resources, career advancement support, and much more. Visit our Membership Page for more information.

How Can I Stay Updated on NAAIA News and Announcements?

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Frequently Asked Questions