How the Day Unfolds

Wednesday, May 20, 2026

Start the afternoon with coffee and conversation. Connect with fellow surplus lines professionals before the program begins.  

The official annual business of the Surplus Line Association of Illinois, including updates from leadership on the state of the organization and the Illinois surplus lines marketplace.      

Grace Hanson, Founder and CEO of Elysian, presents her highest-rated session from WSIA's EduTech Connect — exploring how AI-powered claims analysis is transforming risk assessment, portfolio evaluation, and claims handling in the E&S segment.      

Enjoy a chef-driven lunch and refreshments on the 67th floor of Willis Tower while continuing conversations with colleagues and making the connections that matter most.      

Thank you for joining us. We look forward to seeing you at next year's Annual Meeting.      

Grace Hanson

Founder & CEO

Grace Hanson serves as Elysian’s CEO and founder, bringing an unparalleled depth of experience in both US and global personal and commercial property & casualty (P&C) insurance. Hanson’s career is distinguished by her leadership at industry giants, where she consistently drove innovation in claims operations, digital distribution, analytics, and cognitive computing. Her tenure as CCO at Allied World, Homesite, Hiscox, and Hippo provided her with a panoramic view of the challenges facing claims professionals,  particularly the burdensome administrative workload that detracts from strategic, human- centered tasks.  

Grace’s philosophy is rooted in the belief that technology should empower, not replace, claims professionals. She has repeatedly emphasized that the industry’s value lies in the promise made to policyholders, the stories embedded in every claim, and the critical role of human judgment in resolving complex scenarios. Her vision for Elysian is to harmonize  AI and human expertise, creating a system that is both machine-driven and human- empowering.

An afternoon built for the people who keep

Illinois' surplus lines marketplace moving  

Stay Ahead  

Practical insights on AI, compliance, and emerging market trends.  

Build Relationships 

Connect with brokers and industry leaders in a setting built for meaningful exchange.  

Experience Chicago 

67 floors above Chicago in one of the city's most iconic venues.  

Join Us May 20, 2026

An afternoon above the Chicago skyline — don't miss it

The Metropolitan at Willis Tower

233 S Wacker Dr 67th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606

  Perched atop the iconic Willis Tower, The Metropolitan offers sweeping skyline views and an unmatched setting for an afternoon of connection.