Insurance trade groups in New Jersey and New York are seeking nominations for each state’s 2010 Distinction of Professionalism awards.

Each year, the Professional Insurance Agents of New Jersey and New York State individually honor insurance professionals who demonstrate the qualities and actions that serve as an example of industry excellence. Both PIANJ and PIANY will present the following awards to individuals in their respective states.

The Professional Agent of the Year award will be presented to an agent in each state who demonstrates excellence and achievement in insurance marketing and service; personal commitment to professionalism; and contributions to PIA and the community.

The Distinguished Insurance Service award will be given to someone in the industry who has an established history of service to the American agency system and PIA.

The Community Service award, new this year, will be presented to an individual who has had a leadership role in a significant activity for the better of the community and/or its individuals.

Additionally, PIANJ presents the Company Person of the Year award to a company representative who demonstrates qualities that best foster a sound working relationship between insurance agent and company.

Awards in both states will be presented to the recipients during PIANJ/PIANY’s Joint Annual Conference, scheduled for June 13 to June 15, at the Trump Taj Mahal Casino Resort in Atlantic City, N.J.

The deadline for submission in both states is Friday, April 16, 2010. A nomination form can be obtained here for New Jersey and here for New York.

PIANJ and PIANY represent independent insurance agencies, brokerages and their employees throughout their respective states.