EmpowHERing Change: The Women Driving Inclusion and Growth at First Acceptance

At First Acceptance Insurance, inclusion and leadership go hand in hand. EmpowHER, our Employee Resource Group (ERG), is dedicated to fostering growth and support for women in the workplace. As we celebrate Women's History Month, Sherrill Thompson sat down with EmpowHER leaders—Call Center Manager and EmpowHER President, Vallery Wilson Wilson, Claims Training Manager & EmpowHER Vice President, Laurie Bowlen , and Product Development Manager Daesha Maclin, MS , who also serves as EmpowHER’s Treasurer & Secretary —to discuss their vision and goals.

How It All Began

Each leader discovered EmpowHER in a unique way. Daesha joined after seeing an email post-COVID, craving connection after working remotely. “It was nice to be able to join a group where I could interact with different departments after being virtual for so long.” Vallery learned about it during her hiring process and was immediately interested. “My recruiter mentioned EmpowHER as a perk, and I thought it was such a great initiative.” Laurie simply couldn’t ignore it, “I kept seeing these amazing events happen right by my office, so I had to check it out!”

Stepping Up as Leaders

The now EmpowHER’s leaders involvement grew naturally. Daesha first joined the volunteer committee, encouraging community service. “I was part of the team pushing for more company-wide service projects. That’s where I realized how much impact this group could have.” Laurie, as a training manager, saw an opportunity to introduce new employees to the group. “I brought my trainees to events so they could immediately feel a sense of belonging.” Vallery, an avid reader, joined through the book club. “I love reading and discussing different perspectives, so when I saw the book club, I knew I wanted to be involved.” When the chance came to revamp EmpowHER, they all jumped in. “Pam [a former leader] reached out to me, and I was excited to step into a leadership role,” says Vallery. “I wanted to help shape this community and take it to the next level.”

What’s Next?

The leaders have big plans for EmpowHER’s future and they’re ready to make an immediate impact. Vallery is working towards breaking down silos within the company. “I want to bridge the gaps between teams and departments so we can build real, impactful relationships.” Laurie is spearheading a monthly newsletter to shine a light on female leaders. “It’s so important to highlight the amazing women we have here and to share historical insights that inspire us.” Daesha is eager to launch a mentorship program. “I truly believe in the power of women mentoring other women. It’s something that can help all of us grow.”

Growing the Impact

Beyond personal goals, EmpowHER aims to make First Acceptance Insurance more inclusive. Laurie hopes to bring more engagement from the claims department. “I know how easy it is to get buried in work and miss out on opportunities like this. I want to make it easier for claims employees to participate.” Vallery wants to create a space where employees can learn from each other. “I’d love to bring in speakers to talk about work-life balance and personal growth.” Daesha is passionate about recognizing unsung heroes in the company. “There are so many women making a difference here that people don’t always see. I want to help bring their stories to light.”

Expanding ERGs

Looking ahead, they envision more ERGs at First Acceptance. Daesha would love to see a Young Professionals ERG. “A group where recent grads and newcomers to the industry can get support would be really beneficial.” Laurie wants to revitalize volunteering efforts. “We have eight hours a year for community service, and I’d love to see more people take advantage of that.” Vallery sees a need for a Mental Health & Wellness ERG. “Work-life balance and well-being are crucial, and we should have a space to focus on that.”

Why First Acceptance?

These leaders love the company’s growth and innovation. “We’re bringing in like-minded individuals who care about service and excellence,” says Vallery. Laurie values how the company adapts to change. “We’ve evolved so much, especially post-COVID. It’s inspiring to be part of a company that doesn’t just keep up—it leads.” Daesha appreciates the hands-on experience that comes with working at a smaller company. “Being at a company of this size means you get to be involved in so many aspects of the business. You’re not just a number; you have an impact.”

What’s Next?

“EmpowHER isn’t just for women—we need men to support us too,” says Laurie. Vallery closes with a powerful reminder: “Here’s to strong women. May we know them, may we be them, and may we raise them.”

This Women’s History Month, we celebrate leadership, inclusion, and the future of EmpowHER. Get involved if you can, because when we lift each other up, we all rise.