April Yearby

I credit much of my success to the mentors who guided me—especially Joe W., Rand M., and Philip R. Their impact wasn’t defined by formal meetings or structured programs, but by timely conversations, shared perspective, and a willingness to invest in the moment. Those lessons continue to shape how I lead and how I serve others.

Today, I’m committed to paying that forward by mentoring emerging professionals and sharing what I’ve learned along the way. To women entering this field: be patient, stay dedicated, and cultivate resilience. Progress takes time, but mentorship and persistence make all the difference.

Respect the intelligence in the room, and listen to understand—not to respond.

It changed how I show up in conversations, especially when the stakes are high. When you slow down enough to truly listen, you hear what matters, not just what’s being said. That’s where clarity, trust, and better decisions begin.

To women entering this field: be patient, stay dedicated, and cultivate resilience. Progress takes time, but mentorship and persistence make all the difference.

One of the greatest opportunities in my field today is redefining how risk shows up in leadership—not as fear or constraint, but as clarity. As complexity deepens across technology, governance, and people, leaders have a chance to approach risk with intention rather than urgency.

In environments where experience is respected and listening is purposeful, risk becomes a guide instead of a barrier. It sharpens judgment, strengthens alignment, and builds resilience that lasts—creating leadership others trust, follow, and learn from.

The values that guide me—professionally and personally—are integrity, perseverance, and a commitment to continual learning. My career path began in nursing school and led me into the insurance industry,where insight, intuition, transparency, and trust shape outcomes.

I hold a Property and Casualty license, which requires ongoing education and reinforces professional discipline and accountability. That learning is most meaningful when paired with hands-on experience—developed through real-world complexity, responsibility, and long-term perspective. This balance continues to inform how I approach leadership, risk, and decision-making.

I also place strong value on professional community and engagement. Being involved with organizations such as RIMS, NAAIA, and CHIEF allows me to stay connected, contribute meaningfully, and continue learning alongside peers who value thoughtful leadership.

It’s a perspective forged through experience, strengthened by discipline, and carried with the composure to lead when it counts.