Sierra Signorelli and Marya Propis Honored
700 Attendees from 124 Sponsoring Companies at the Waldorf Astoria NY Hotel Contributed to a Record Result
NEW YORK, NY, September 18, 2026 – The Spencer Educational Foundation's annual Funding Their Future Gala raised $2.28 million to support scholarships, grants, internships, and educational programming that strengthen the risk management and insurance talent pipeline.
Held at the Waldorf Astoria New York, the 700-person Gala honored Sierra Signorelli, who represented Zurich Insurance at the event and has since been appointed CEO, Americas and Global Personal Insurance at AIG, and Marya Propis, President of Retail Distribution at RT Specialty and former Chair of Spencer's Board of Directors. In their remarks, both honorees underscored the importance of supporting and investing in future talent.
Reflecting on her own career journey, Sierra Signorelli noted, "I am here today because people along the way were willing to take a chance on me at pivotal moments in my career." She encouraged industry leaders to continue opening doors for emerging professionals through mentorship, introductions, and support.
In a speech centered on authenticity and leadership, Marya Propis shared the lesson she has carried throughout her career: "No one decides your best recipe except you." She concluded by challenging students and young professionals to "Own. Your. Flavor." and embrace their unique strengths as leaders.
The evening also featured several significant commitments to Spencer's mission. Zurich renewed its scholarship partnership with a $100,000 commitment, while the event’s live fundraising challenge raised an additional $140,000 through the combined generosity of guest donations and a matching gift from the Z Zurich Foundation. RT Specialty’s support was complemented by a generous contribution from Pat Ryan's private foundation. An additional 122 sponsoring companies participated in the event, reflecting the broad industry commitment to developing future talent.
"This year alone, Spencer is poised to invest nearly $4m across 125 scholarships and hundreds of grants in support of our mission to grow the talent pool,” said Megan Miller, Chief Executive Officer of Spencer Educational Foundation. “We are deeply grateful to Sierra, Marya, our sponsors, and donors for this tremendous Gala result, which will enable Spencer to have an even bigger impact in 2027."
About Spencer Educational Foundation
Spencer Educational Foundation is the leading nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening the risk management and insurance talent pipeline through scholarships, grants, internships, and educational programming that support the next generation of industry leaders.
Media Contacts
Keyonna Hill
Outreach Coordinator
Spencer Educational Foundation
T: +1-212-655-6060
E: keyonna@spencered.org