L. Gerald Roach Memorial Scholarship

Scholarship Sponsored by Virginia Association of Mutual Insurance Companies

In 1981, L. Gerald "Jerry" Roach assumed the role of President at the Mutual Assurance Society. During his tenure, Jerry was instrumental in implementing significant operational changes within the company. One of his most notable contributions was the modernization of the company's record-keeping system. Jerry transitioned the company from a rudimentary 3 x 5 card system to a sophisticated computerized system, which he played a key role in developing. This system, albeit with a few minor modifications, continues to be utilized today.

Under Jerry's leadership, Mutual Assurance experienced substantial growth. The company's policy count increased from approximately 5,000 to over 23,000. Similarly, annual premiums escalated from $800,000 to a staggering $38,000,000. When Jerry joined the company in 1981, the team consisted of six employees, including himself. By the time of his passing, the company's workforce had expanded to 31 employees.

Jerry's influence extended beyond Mutual Assurance. He served as a past president of the Virginia Association of Mutual Insurance Companies and as a past chairman of the National Association of Mutual Insurance Companies. Throughout his illustrious career, Jerry held numerous industry leadership positions. He also earned several prestigious designations, including Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter, Fellow in the Life Management Institute, and Chartered Financial Examiner.

L. Gerald Roach was not only a remarkable man and a loving father, but also a towering figure in the mutual insurance industry. In honor of his dedication and contributions to the industry, the Virginia Association of Mutual Insurance Companies (VAMIC) awards the L. Gerald Roach Memorial Scholarship annually. This scholarship is available to Virginia residents pursuing an undergraduate degree in Insurance, Risk Management, or Business Administration.

If you are a Virginia resident currently enrolled in one of these degree programs, we encourage you to apply for the VAMIC L. Gerald Roach Memorial Scholarship. To apply, please complete our application form and submit it along with a cover letter to one of our officers. The application deadline is November 1st, with the scholarship funds intended to assist with Spring semester tuition costs.

Eligibility Criteria:

1. Applicant must be a resident of Virginia.
2. Applicant must be enrolled full-time in an undergraduate degree program in Insurance, Risk Management, or Business Administration.
3. Applicant must express interest in pursuing a career in Insurance, Risk Management, or Business Administration upon graduation.

Application Process:

1. Complete the application form.
2. Submit the completed application along with a cover letter to a VAMIC officer by November 1st.