Close Close
ThinkAdvisor

Life Health > Life Insurance

Charles D. Marks receives first Distinguished Alumnus Award from The American College

By Staff Writer

X
Your article was successfully shared with the contacts you provided.

The American College, Bryn Mawr, Pa., has awarded Charles D. Marks, CLU, ChFC, CASL, the first-ever Distinguished Alumnus Award. The award was presented to Marks in honor of his many years of exemplary service, leadership, and his contributions to the life insurance industry as well as The College.

“The American College is honored to present the Distinguished Alumnus Award to Charles,” said Larry Barton, Ph.D., President and CEO of The American College. “Our institution has benefitted enormously from his dedication and service over the years, and we are all lucky to have the opportunity to learn and grow from his expertise.”

Marks began his career in insurance in 1964. He was president of the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) – Greater New Orleans from 1982-83 and from 1986-87 held the same position with NAIFA – Louisiana. He also served as president of the New Orleans chapter of the Society of Financial Services Professionals from 1984-85 and was president of the New Orleans Estate Planning Council from 1986-87.

In 1989, Marks was elected to the executive committee of the Million Dollar Round Table. While serving as president of the MDRT from 1992-93, he established the Home Office Partnership, a program focused on the quality, professionalism and ethical standards of all life insurance agents. He also established the MDRT Mentoring Task Force, which led to the MDRT Mentoring Program.

During his presidential year, under the leadership of MDRT, an Industry Reputation Task Force was created to address the adverse public relations image within the life insurance industry. Charles named the new organization LIFE, representing the Life and Health Insurance Foundation for Education, and served as its chairman from 1996-98.

During his time at The American College, Marks served on the Board of Trustees, the Educational Policy Committee, the LUTC Committee, the Certification Committee, and as a director of The College’s Endowment Foundation. He was the first Trustee of The College to earn the Chartered Advisor for Senior Living (CASL) certification.

In 1981, Marks was honored as the NAIFA – Greater New Orleans’ Man of the Year. The same year, he won the Prudential Community Leadership Award. In 1985, 1987, and 2002, he was honored as the NAIFA – Louisiana Man of the Year.

Marks has been actively involved in his community throughout his distinguished career. He is a former board member for the United Way, Big Brothers of Greater New Orleans and the Boys Club of Greater New Orleans. He has held leadership roles with organizations such as Leave a Legacy, Junior Achievement and the Goodwill Rehabilitation Center.