Al Breitenfeldt Named 2026 Ron Von Haden Agent of the Year

At the Annual Awards Dinner during PIA's Engage 2026 conference, Al Breitenfeldt, CIC, of Community Insurance & Associates in Iola, WI was named the 2026 Ron Von Haden Agent of the Year in recognition of his longstanding leadership, advocacy, and service to PIA.

Named in honor of Ron Von Haden, this prestigious award recognizes an agent who demonstrates outstanding dedication to the insurance industry, independent agents, and the PIA community.

Al has been an active and dedicated member of PIA for nearly two decades, serving on the Board of Directors from 2008 to 2011 before taking the helm as President of PIA in 2011-2012. His exceptional contributions to the association were previously recognized in 2013 when he received the Stony Steinbach Achievement Award from his director peers.

Throughout his service with PIA, he has worked on numerous committees, including the Clay Shoot, Executive, Legislative, and Nominations committees. He remains engaged with the organization regularly participating with the Past Presidents Club, sharing his experiences and insights with fellow industry leaders. He also has been a strong advocate for independent agents at the national level, participating in PIA’s annual advocacy trips to Washington D.C. for four consecutive years.

"Al’s passion for PIA and the independent agency system runs deep," said Pete Hanson, PIAW Executive Director. “From his leadership on the Board to his advocacy efforts, Al has consistently gone above and beyond to support his fellow agents. He is a clear example of the best in our industry, and we are proud to honor him as Agent of the Year.”

It was wonderful to have the opportunity to celebrate Al at Engage 2026 along with so many agent friends and family members who traveled to surprise him.

Congratulations on this prestigious honor and thank you for all you have done and continue to do for PIA!