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Students in the insurance studies program do not have to search far to find someone who models what it takes to be successful in the industry. They only need to look to Diauntae Morrow, the new lead faculty for the program, who is helping promote the Kent State insurance studies program on a national level by being recognized as a leader in the industry. 

In front of more than 1,300 insurance professionals representing 32 state chapters, Morrow received the 2025 Emerging Leader Award at the National African American Insurance Association’s conference in Philadelphia this past September. The award recognizes African American professionals who demonstrate significant professional achievements and show high potential for continued success. He currently serves as president of the Cleveland chapter of NAAIA.

During the conference, Morrow also served on a four-person panel titled “Command the Room: Branding Yourself into Leadership” where he joined other industry leaders to discuss strategies for cultivating presence, influence and leadership through personal branding.

Aside from this honor, Morrow also was recognized in June as a “35 Under 35” recipient at the RISE Leadership Summit and Awards Gala in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. 

RISE is a national insurance community dedicated to empowering and supporting early-career talent; fostering innovation through education on emerging industry trends; and building a community where professionals can collaborate with mentors and peers ().  Its vision is to “empower the next generation of insurance professionals by providing a platform for growth, connection and recognition.”

Students often hear about the importance of networking and building professional relationships before graduating and early in their careers; therefore, Morrow is a perfect example of how this model works.

Not only does he teach insurance courses at Kent State, Morrow also actively advises students within the program. “I support them in course selection, career planning, internship placement and professional development,” he explained. “My goal is to help each student find their unique path in the insurance industry and graduate with confidence and clarity about their futures.”

It wasn’t that long ago that Morrow was stepping out to find his place in the professional world. He graduated from the University of Toledo where he majored in sports marketing and minored in business management. He later earned his Master of Business Administration degree, with a leadership concentration, from Southeastern Oklahoma State University.

Before joining Kent State as a lecturer in the insurance studies program, Morrow spent nine years in the insurance industry. During that time, he also served as an adjunct instructor at Lorain County Community College where he taught risk management courses.

His career began at Progressive Insurance where he received foundational training and earned his license in property and casualty insurance. He later worked as an insurance consultant for athletes and entertainers, helping them navigate complex coverage needs. He also owned and operated an independent insurance agency where he gained hands-on experience in sales, client service and business management.

“My background as a former collegiate athlete and coach has played a key role in shaping my approach to leadership, mentorship and problem-solving in the insurance field,” Morrow said. “…I was immediately intrigued by how dynamic and essential the insurance industry is. The combination of risk management, client relationships and strategic thinking felt like a natural extension of the skills I developed as an athlete and coach.”

The insurance studies degree at Kent State is offered 100% online and asynchronous, allowing Morrow to reach students across different regions and accommodate various learning styles. “I use interactive tools and real-world case studies to make the online experience engaging and impactful,” he explained.

Another helpful networking opportunity for insurance studies students at Kent State is the Beta Nu Chapter of Gamma Iota Sigma, an international collegiate student-led organization for insurance, risk management, cyber engineering and actuarial science. The chapter helps students build connections and gain exposure to the professional world early in their careers.

Again, Morrow offers the perfect voice and presence for promoting careers within the insurance industry. “One thing I always emphasize is how versatile and impactful a career in insurance can be,” he said. “It’s not just about selling policies. It’s about solving problems, building relationships and protecting what matters most to individuals and businesses.

“I’ve seen firsthand how the skills developed through athletics, coaching and leadership translate seamlessly into this field. Whether you’re analytical, people-oriented, tech-savvy or entrepreneurial, there’s a path for you in insurance. I’m passionate about helping students discover those opportunities and guiding them toward meaningful careers that offer both stability and purpose.”  

Cutline A: Diauntae Morrow called to the stage to accept the 2025 Emerging Leader Award at the NAAIA Conference.

Cutline B: Diauntae Morrow with the RISE “35 Under 35” award. 

Cutline C: Diauntae Morrow with his Emerging Leader Award at the NAAIA Conference.