Each year, CAI-CLAC proudly recognizes the exceptional volunteers whose dedication, leadership, and passion elevate our organization and strengthen our advocacy efforts. This year, we expanded our awards to celebrate even more individuals and organizations making a meaningful impact.
Across seven award categories, eight outstanding honorees were recognized for their contributions, each exemplifying the spirit of service and commitment that drives CAI-CLAC forward.
Chair’s Choice
Kieran Purcell, Esq., Epsten, APC
The Chair’s Choice Award is an honor personally selected each year by the Chair of CAI-CLAC to recognize truly exceptional contributions. Traditionally, this award celebrates an individual whose dedication and efforts have made a profound and lasting impact on CAI-CLAC.
This year, it is especially fitting to recognize Kieran, whose exemplary service to both CAI and CAI-CLAC has spanned many years. His depth of experience, breadth of knowledge, and thoughtful guidance have been invaluable to the Executive Committee of CAI-CLAC as well as to his local chapter. Kieran’s unwavering commitment and leadership have left an indelible mark, enriching the organization and those fortunate enough to work alongside him.
Volunteer of the Year
Terri Guest, CIRMS, CMCA, Prendiville Insurance
The Volunteer of the Year Award recognizes a member who goes above and beyond in volunteering, strengthens engagement, and actively supports CAI-CLAC initiatives.
Terri Guest’s longstanding commitment and leadership have made her an invaluable member of CAI-CLAC. As an active participant on the PR Committee and Insurance Task Force, she consistently contributes her time, insight, and expertise.
Terri played a key role in expanding member engagement by gathering real-world stories related to AB 130 and delivering informative presentations on California’s evolving insurance landscape. Her outreach across multiple chapters has helped educate members and amplify awareness of critical issues, making her a true champion of volunteerism.
Advocate of the Year
Dirk Petchul, Esq., Petchul Bonkowski LLP
The Advocate of the Year Award honors individuals who demonstrate exceptional commitment to advocacy through legislative engagement, outreach, and fundraising leadership.
Dirk Petchul has been a driving force behind advocacy efforts, bringing clarity and insight to complex legislative topics. As a trusted resource and CAI-CLAC At-Large Delegate, he regularly translates policy developments into actionable knowledge for members.
Dirk’s leadership extends across multiple roles, including Chair of the Insurance and Housing/ADU Task Forces, and his presence at educational events ensures advocacy remains front and center. His visionary leadership of the Annual Cook’s Corner Concert fundraiser—generating over $20,000 annually—has significantly strengthened his chapter’s impact and contributions.
Policy Award
Amy Tinetti, Esq., CCAL, Hughes Gill Cochrane Tinetti
The Policy Award recognizes excellence in policy development, analysis, and communication of legislative priorities.
Amy Tinetti has brought a thoughtful, solutions-focused approach to policy work. Her ability to analyze complex issues and guide meaningful discussions has helped ensure alignment on key legislative priorities.
Through her expertise, Amy has made policy more accessible and understandable to both board members and participants in her chapter, strengthening the organization’s ability to advocate effectively.
Leadership Award
Clint Atherton, PCAM, LSM, Sun City Palm Desert
The Leadership Award celebrates strategic leadership that advances advocacy goals and drives meaningful outcomes.
Clint Atherton exemplifies leadership through both action and influence. He has played a vital role in advancing legislative initiatives, including efforts to improve reserve requirements—an issue of critical importance to the industry.
As a leader, Clint inspires others through mentorship, professionalism, and consistent engagement. He actively promotes advocacy within his community and encourages participation among peers, while also supporting fundraising efforts. His ability to unite and motivate others has made a lasting impact on CAI-CLAC’s mission.
Supporter of the Year (Tie)
The Supporter of the Year Award recognizes outstanding financial, in-kind, and promotional support of advocacy initiatives and honors individuals or organizations providing exceptional financial support and leadership in advocacy initiatives.
Chris Lucas, CCAM-I, CCOP, Heritage Bank of Commerce
Chris Lucas embodies the spirit of dedicated support. From hosting the Legislative Support Committee booth at chapter events to actively engaging members in advocacy conversations, she brings energy and enthusiasm to every effort.
Her ongoing sponsorship, outreach, and leadership have significantly increased awareness and participation, making her a cornerstone of support within her chapter.
Westpark Maintenance District
Westpark Maintenance District sets a high standard for community advocacy. Representing over 4,200 residences, this association actively shapes the future of the industry through consistent financial contributions and grassroots engagement.
Their commitment to initiatives like the “Buck-A-Door or More” campaign ensures vital resources are available for legislative advocacy. Through leadership and dedication, Westpark Maintenance District continues to protect and advance homeowner interests statewide.
Chapter Advocacy Collaboration Award
Kristin Amarillas, CMCA, AMS, PCAM, Keystone Pacific / The Manor Association
The Chapter Advocacy Collaboration Award recognizes leadership in collaborative, cross-chapter advocacy and statewide initiatives.
Kristin Amarillas has been instrumental in fostering collaboration and driving successful statewide efforts in fundraising for Advocacy Week. Her leadership brought together fundraising, communications, and logistics in a highly coordinated and effective way.
Notably, her work on the fundraising “envelope wall” initiative boosted engagement and results, demonstrating innovation and teamwork at its best.
Rising Star
Suzy Reid, CMCA, Prescott Management
The Rising Star Award honors emerging leaders who demonstrate initiative, innovation, and strong potential in advocacy-related initiatives.
Suzy Reid has quickly distinguished herself as a rising leader within CAI-CLAC. Since joining in 2024, she has taken on meaningful responsibilities, including drafting her chapter’s Bill Brief and serving as Liaison to CAI-CLAC.
Her proactive approach and innovative thinking have been evident in her work to enhance the Management for CAI-CLAC program to expand its reach to management companies. Suzy’s enthusiasm, initiative, and dedication signal a bright future in advocacy-related leadership.
Celebrating Excellence in Volunteerism
This year’s award recipients reflect the very best of CAI-CLAC—individuals and organizations who lead with passion, collaborate with purpose, and dedicate themselves to advancing advocacy for the community.
Their contributions not only strengthen our organization today but also help shape a stronger, more effective future for all.
We are always seeking additional volunteers to join their chapter’s Legislative Support Committee. If you are interested in learning more, please contact your local chapter.
If you haven’t already done so, you are encouraged to follow CAI-CLAC on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube for ongoing news, resources, events and legislative action. AND, feel free to LIKE, SHARE and COMMENT on CAI-CLAC posts. This helps to spread our message and show the strength of our community.
2025 CAI-CLAC Advocacy Excellence Awards
