Merchants President & CEO Charles Makey III Receives Thom McDaniel Exemplar Award From Big I New York

Photo courtesy of Big I New York. Charles Makey III and Kelly Gonyo

Merchants Insurance Group President and Chief Executive Officer Charles Makey III was honored with the 2026 Thom McDaniel Exemplar Award by Big I New York.

Presented at Big I New York’s GO BIG Event, the Thom McDaniel Exemplar Award recognizes an individual who exemplifies dedication and steadfast support of independent agencies. Makey was selected for his leadership and advocacy efforts, including his trailblazing work surrounding RICO filings aimed at combating insurance fraud in New York State.

Photo courtesy of Big I New York. Lisa Lounsbury and Charles Makey III

This distinction highlights Merchants Insurance Group’s ongoing commitment to protecting policyholders, supporting agency partners, and strengthening the insurance marketplace under Makey’s leadership. In particular, the company’s recent legal action sought to address widespread fraudulent activity that has impacted consumers and insurers throughout New York.

“I’m deeply honored to receive this award from Big I New York,” Makey said. “Supporting independent agents and standing up for the integrity of our industry are priorities that matter tremendously to all of us at Merchants.”

Charles Makey receiving the award from Kelly Gonyo, Blue Line Insurance and Big I New York Chair of the Board

The Thom McDaniel Exemplar Award is considered one of the organization’s most meaningful honors because it recognizes leadership that reflects long-term commitment to the independent agency system and the values that support it.

Makey’s recognition came during a successful two-day GO BIG event for Merchants Insurance Group. In addition to the individual honor, Merchants was also named the 2026 Outstanding Company Partner – Commercial Lines Carrier, an award voted on by independent insurance agents across New York.

Merchants earned the Commercial Lines Carrier of the Year designation based on the strength of its agency relationships, responsiveness, and continued efforts to support growth.

Read the full announcement of Merchants’ 2026 Commercial Lines Carrier of the Year Award here.

Photo courtesy of Big I New York. Pictured from left: David Lavoie, Sr. Territory Manager; Frank Simpson, Regional Vice President; Kelly Gonyo, Chair of Big I New York; Charles Makey III, President & CEO

Makey expressed that both awards reflect the collective work of the entire Merchants organization and its agency partners.

“Our relationships with independent agents are at the center of everything we do,” Makey said. “We’re proud to advocate for agents, support their growth, and work together to address the challenges facing our industry.”