October 23, 2002

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT:
Jennifer May, PIIAI Industry Affairs Coordinator
(217) 793-6660 or jmay@piiai.org

Edward W. Bowman Elected Chairman of the PIIAI Education Committee

Edward W. Bowman, president of Stewart-Keator-Kessberger & Lederer Inc., in Burr Ridge, Ill., has been elected to the board of directors of the Professional Independent Insurance Agents of Illinois (PIIAI) as Chairman of the Education Committee, effective October 1, 2002- September 30, 2003.

As Chairman of the Education Committee, Bowman will lead committee members in researching, developing, and promoting education and training programs for agents and their employees throughout the state. As a member of the board of directors, He will work with other board members to approve all policy positions regarding insurance legislation and, through the board, assist with management decisions impacting the association's long-term financial viability.

Bowman has 27 years of experience in the insurance business and was active in the Independent Insurance Agents of Illinois (IIAI), a predecessor of the PIIAI. He served as the State National Director for PIIAI for six years. Bowman has also served the association in numerous other capacities, including 1990-1991 President of IIAI, Advisory Board member, INSURPAC member, Commercial Lines Committee member, Agency Management Committee member, and chairperson for the Education Committee.

Bowman resides in Naperville with his wife, Susie. They have two children: Todd and Lindsey.

The Professional Independent Insurance Agents of Illinois is an association representing independent insurance agents throughout the state. PIIAI membership is comprised of 1,500 insurance agencies representing 12,000 licensed independent agents engaged in all facets of the insurance industry, including property, casualty, life and health. Its members are businesses that offer customers a choice of policies from a variety of insurance companies. In addition to serving the professional needs of members, PIIAI works for the betterment of the insurance industry through legislative and consumer awareness programs. The PIIAI is headquartered in Springfield, Illinois. Visit PIIAI's consumer website at www.ChooseIndependent.com or agent website at www.piiai.org.