Elaine Brunner (FCAS 2005) lives and works in Indiana, a land in the heart of the Midwest where the Indianapolis 500 is simply known as the “Race.” Although a transplanted Michigander, she’s a Hoosier and a proud one. In true Hoosier fashion, Brunner positively affects her community and the CAS through her participation and volunteerism, and she is one of the many examples of the Society’s diverse membership.
After high school in northern Michigan, she majored in math at Carleton College, a small liberal arts school in Northfield, Minnesota. Northfield is so small it is known for the three Cs: “cows, colleges and contentment.” Carleton’s career center directed her toward the actuarial profession. “I signed up for the first exam, put together a resume and sent out applications to companies with intern programs,” she said.
She interned at American States Insurance in Indianapolis in the summer following her junior year. At the end of her internship, American States offered her a position after she graduated. That’s how she became a Hoosier.
Brunner worked at American States (later bought by Safeco) for five years and then moved to Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance (IFBI), where she works today. Because IFBI is a small company, Brunner has many opportunities to learn all aspects of the business. “I get to work in several areas: pricing, reserving and predictive modeling. It’s fun!” she said.
Brunner is an enthusiastic runner and has completed four full marathons and many half marathons. “I’m a little obsessive about running and getting my run in on certain days,” she said. During a CAS Leadership Summit at O’Hare Airport in Chicago, she had limited running options so she ran around the airport parking lot.
Along with running, she is involved in a program for rescuing retired racing greyhounds in Indianapolis. “They are the best pets ever!” she said. She has adopted two greyhounds of her own and five dogs over the years.
In addition to her work and activities, Brunner also manages to find time to volunteer for the CAS. “I started volunteering because I wanted to give back to the Society that has given me a great career,” she said. Brunner currently serves as vice chair of the CAS Webinar Committee, a member of the Volunteer Resources Committee and the Member Advisory Panel. “Being a part of these committees has been a fantastic way to stay current on developments in the industry and to meet and network with actuaries from around the country and the world.”
What is next for Brunner? “I’m interested in joining other committees someday, though I’m happy with what I’m doing right now.”
