Jun 9, 2019

Wilkens elected PIANJ vice president

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J.—Thomas Wilkens of Belford, N.J. was elected vice president of the Professional Insurance Agents of New Jersey today at the association’s annual business meeting held at Harrah’s Resort and Casino in Atlantic City. Wilkens is Branch Manager & Director of McGowan Risk Specialists in Eatontown, N.J.

Active in the association, Wilkens served as treasurer of PIANJ in 2018-19 and secretary in 2017-18. He is a member of the Membership Services/Programs and Executive/Budget & Finance Committees and he is a member of the NJ Agents Justice Task Force. Wilkens also is a member of the  PIANJ Political Action Governing Committee and is a member of the association’s Carrier Advisory Council. Wilkens also is an active past president of the New Jersey Young Insurance Professionals, an organization dedicated to the professional and personal growth of newcomers to the insurance industry. Additionally, he is co-chairperson of the Special Olympics Golf Committee.

In 2017, Wilkens was named NJYIP Young Insurance Professional of the Year. This award is given to an individual who has exemplified a commitment to professionalism, networking and service and whose actions have served to the betterment of the NJYIP organization. Wilkens was named the PIANJ Director of the Year in 2016. This award recognizes the hard work and dedication of a member of the association’s board of directors who has contributed remarkable time and talent to help support the association and its many programs. In 2010, Wilkens received the NJYIP Director of the Year award for his leadership, attention to responsibilities and tireless work ethic.

In his community, Wilkens serves as an advisory board member of Michael’s Feat, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing comfort and support to families with seriously ill newborns. He is a motivational speaker and is a member of the Middletown Municipal Alliance for the Prevention of Drug and Alcohol Abuse. In 2000, Wilkens was Captain of the United States Olympic Swim Team in Sydney, Australia where he won the Bronze Medal in the 200 Individual Medley. In addition, he served as an elected member of the Middletown Township Committee.

PIANJ is a trade association representing professional, independent insurance agencies, brokerages and their employees throughout the state.

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