Sparks to Lead Texas Fire and Casualty Insurers Association

Craig Sparks, president of Union Standard Insurance Group in Irving, Texas, has been elected president of the Association of Fire and Casualty Companies in Texas (AFACT).

Sparks, whose term as AFACT president runs for two years, says the industry faces many challenges.

“Keeping simple claims from becoming lawsuits and being financially prepared for the catastrophic storms that constantly pound our state are challenges for every insurance company,” Sparks said. “We want to continue to tell consumers and legislative leaders how well-run insurance companies can help bring prosperity and financial security to all of Texas.”

AFACT board members elected Lyndell Haigood, regional vice-president of State Auto Insurance Company in Wichita Falls, as vice president. Mike Gerik, executive vice president of the Texas Farm Bureau Insurance Company, was elected treasurer.

Immediate past president of AFACT and CEO of NLASCO, Greg Vanek and Paul Ehlert, first vice-present of Germania Insurance, will serve as directors at large.

Alton Thomas, a retired insurance company executive, will continue in the position of AFACT executive manager.

AFACT is a trade organization representing Texas property and casualty insurance companies. It was founded in 1941 to broaden consumer knowledge of insurance and support legislation to improve the insurance business.

Source: AFACT, www.AFACT.net