The Lifetime Achievement Award was created to recognize members who have contributed to the life and health insurance industry throughout their careers as well as contributing to their community. As insurance agents became the primary financial advisors to their clients, the scope of the award broadened. In 2004, the award was renamed the I. David Cohen Lifetime Achievement Award in honor of David Cohen who originally conceived the award and for his many years of service to NAIFA-Columbus. Allan W. Lepley, CLU, ChFC was chosen as the 2021 recipient and was recognized by NAIFA-Columbus President, Jay Randall, during this year's luncheon on December 15, 2021.
Allan W. Lepley, CLU, ChFC, has been a representative with the Northwestern Mutual Financial Network since 1977 when he started as a college intern. Originally from Galion, Ohio, Allan graduated from The Ohio State University in 1977 with a bachelor’s degree in Insurance and Risk Management.
Allan first became involved with NAIFA as the assistant chair and then chairman of the Dennis Clark Memorial Golf Outing in the late 80's. Allan was nominated for the NAIFA-Columbus board in the early 90’s and served as President from 1996-1997. In 1995 Allan served on the original committee with David Cohen to institute the first presentation of the I. David Cohen Lifetime Achievement Award.
Allan and his wife, Linda, raised four children together: Natalie (Evan), Nick (Jammi), Russ (Filippo), and Thomas. The couple have 3 grandchildren: Alexandria, Zachary, and Abrom. Allan and Linda currently live in Hilliard, Ohio. All four of their children and their families live in the Columbus metropolitan area as well.
