Each year we request nominations for the Barry Thoma Memorial Award. This is the highest award given by our State Association in recognition of furthering our business through service to the association.

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This award is named after its first recipient, a former president of WAHU and tireless advocate for our Association, our members, our industry, our clients.

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Please join WAHU in congratulating and presenting the 2023 Barry Thoma Memorial Award to Mel Sorenson, WAHU Lobbyist, retired attorney from Carney Bradley Spellman.

 

Mel served as WAHU's Lobbyist for 19 years, representing our association in Olympia. Mel's tenure as WAHU's Lobbyist ended as he entered the next phase of his journey, retirement. Congratulations, Mel and thank you for everything you did for the association!

 

If you would like to nominate a member, complete the Barry Thoma nomination by email to info@wahealthunderwriters.org, or mail to WAHU; 19540 International Blvd, Suite 105; Seatac, WA 98188.

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The Parameters of the Award

The Board of Trustees of the Washington Association of Health Underwriters established the Barry Thoma Memorial Award to recognize those members who contribute significant amounts of time and talent to further the health insurance industry; who display the character traits and style of leadership; and who promote principals of professionalism and idealism.

 

The Board of Trustees has further named this award after its first recipient, Barry Thoma, RHU, who set an example for the members of the Washington Association of Health Underwriters.

Nomination Criteria:

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1. Made significant contributions of time and talent to further the health insurance industry.

2. Must display the character traits and skills of leadership.

3. Promotes the principles of professional idealism.

4. Be an active member of the Washington Association of Health Underwriters.