About Us

The Surplus Line Association of Washington exists to support a stable non-admitted insurance market and to make surplus lines compliance clear and accessible. We provide trusted guidance, streamlined tools, educational resources, and collaborative support to help brokers meet filing requirements and navigate regulatory responsibilities with confidence.

Our mission is to make surplus lines compliance clear and accessible—empowering members, insurers, and stakeholders with modern tools and trustworthy guidance.

Guiding you Forward

We believe compliance doesn’t have to feel complicated or intimidating. Our role is to be a clear, approachable guide—helping brokers navigate surplus lines with confidence and ease. Every process we design and every resource we provide is rooted in integrity, collaboration, and support.

Supportive – Trusted – Knowledgeable

Meet Our Team of Experts

Our team is here to support members with trusted guidance, responsive service, and deep expertise in Washington surplus lines compliance.

Joy Erven, MBA

CEO, Executive Director

Carol Durant

AVP, Examination

Arielle O’Neill

AVP, Examination

Jackie Vassallo

AVP, Compliance

Nicole Walden

AVP, Operations & Events

Values that Drive Us

Our values reflect how we work with members, regulators, and partners to strengthen a compliant and connected surplus lines marketplace.

Collaboration

Working side by side with brokers, regulators, and partners to share knowledge, solve challenges, and build a stronger, more compliant industry.

Integrity

Upholding the highest standards of honesty, transparency, and fairness in every interaction, ensuring trust and confidence.

Competence

Applying deep knowledge, expertise, and technology-driven solutions, prioritizing efficiency and accuracy.

Committed Leadership

Our Board of Directors

Our Board is made up of experienced industry leaders who provide strategic oversight and help advance the Association’s mission in service of our members.

Cristi Carrington headshot
Cristi Carrington

Brown & Riding Insurance Services

President

Gretchen Echelbarger headshot
Gretchen Echelbarger

RT Specialty

Vice President

Katy Peterson headshot
Katy Peterson

Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance

Secretary-Treasurer

Headshot Jeff Abram
Jeff Abram

Cochrane & Company

Director

Headshot Connie Divelbiss
Connie Divelbiss

Risk Placement Services

Past President

Molly Jones Headshot
Molly Jones

Ascot Group

Director

Eric merriman headshot
Eric Merriman

CRC Insurance Services

Director

Estella Napoles Headshot
Estella Napoles

Allied World Insurance Company

Director

A Legacy of Trusted Support

Founded in 1941, the Surplus Line Association of Washington was created in partnership with regulators and licensed brokers to strengthen the surplus lines marketplace and support compliant filings statewide. The Association continues that legacy today by providing clear guidance, streamlined tools, and trusted resources for the professionals we serve.