From the Executive Desk

Janelle Winford
Senior Vice President, AgriBusiness Division, Head of Claims
Great American Insurance Group

The start of a new year has a way of inviting reflection. During a recent holiday cruise with my kids—a rare and welcome pause from the pace of our daily work—I found myself thinking about my 29 years with Great American and the business we’re in, the people we serve, and the relationships that have shaped our success. Distance has a way of sharpening perspective, and what became clear to me is this: our work in the equine space is not just a business line. It is a community, a responsibility, and a rewarding challenge.

Every new year brings a sense of renewal, but this year feels especially meaningful. The equine industry continues to evolve, and so do the needs of the owners, trainers, breeders, and agents who rely on us. Fresh starts aren’t about wiping the slate clean, they’re about building on what works, learning from what doesn’t, and recommitting ourselves to the values that define us.

For Great American’s AgriBusiness and Equine Mortality Divisions, that means doubling down on our promise to deliver expertise, compassion, and consistency in every interaction. Whether we’re supporting a family farm, a competitive stable, or a lifelong horse enthusiast, our purpose remains the same: to protect what matters most to the people who dedicate their lives to these remarkable animals.

In claims, we see firsthand how deeply our customers care about their horses, their facilities and their livelihoods. We also see how much trust they place in us during some of their most difficult moments. That trust is not something we take lightly.

Our agents and customers are more than business associates; they are collaborators, advisors, and often friends. Many of these relationships have been built over years of shared challenges and shared victories. They are the foundation of our strength as a company.

As I reflected on the past year, I felt immense gratitude for the agents who advocate tirelessly for their clients, the customers who allow us to walk alongside them, and the internal teams who bring their expertise and heart to every claim, policy, and conversation.

Great American’s AgriBusiness and Equine Mortality Divisions have long been leaders in the equine insurance space. What sets us apart is not just our products, it’s our people and our commitment to continuous improvement.

In the year ahead, we are focused on:

• Strengthening collaboration between AgriBusiness and Equine Mortality to deliver seamless service
• Enhancing claims responsiveness with deeper equine expertise and improved processes
• Supporting agents with tools, training, and communication that help them serve clients confidently while we embrace AI
• Investing in growth that aligns with the evolving needs of the equine community
• Maintaining the empathy and integrity that define our approach to every claim

Our goal is simple: to be your most valued resource in equine insurance, from pasture to performance.

Fresh starts are powerful because they remind us that progress is always possible. As we move into this new year, I am energized by the opportunities ahead and grounded by the relationships that brought us here.

To our agents, customers, and colleagues, thank you for your trust, and your dedication. Together, we will continue to grow, innovate, and support the equine industry with the care and commitment it deserves.

The year ahead is full of promises, and I’m proud to walk into it with all of you.