A Look Back at 2019 Accomplishments 

2019 was another successful year for Rural Mutual. As we look ahead to what 2020 will bring, we reflect on our accomplishments over the past year. 

Rural Mutual celebrated 85 years of providing insurance services in Wisconsin. We took a moment to reflect on how far the company has come, our association partnerships that have developed and the continuous financial strength growth. 

Rural Mutual began the second decade of being selected as a Ward’s Top 50® Performer. For the 11th consecutive year Rural Mutual has been recognized by The Ward Groupthe leading provider of operational and compensation benchmarking and best practices studies for the insurance industry. 

Upon Peter Pelizza’s retirement, Dan Merk moved into the role of Executive VP and CEO.  

Rural Mutual made a monumental commitment to Wisconsin Farm Bureau’s centennial campaign as they aimed to raise $100,000 for agricultural education and leadership programs. Rural Mutual committed to matching all donations ($1-10,000) up to the $100,000.  

For the third year in a row, Rural Mutual paid out a 5% Farm Dividend, rewarding Wisconsin farmers. As Wisconsin’s #1 farm insurer, we’re thankful our financial success allows us to commit to protect Wisconsin farms.  

Rural Mutual was a first-time sponsor of the Wisconsin State Fair, the state’s largest agricultural showcase and family entertainment park, and it’s supporting events including the Cream Puff 5k and Harvest Fair. Supporting Wisconsin farmers, businesses and families is just another way we keep Wisconsin Strong. 

Rural Mutual once again took a concentrated effort in promoting safety around the farm, businesses and home. We highlighted safety presentations in High School Agriculture classes, community safety days and at Wisconsin Farm Technology Days. Protecting the people of WI and what’s important to them continues to be an important focus.   

Rural Mutual continued their support of the WIAA with their involvement in promoting good sportsmanship during youth athletic events. For the 54th year we sponsored the WIAA/Rural Mutual Sportsmanship Award and launched the Sportsmanship Matters campaign.  

Thank you to our partners and policyholders who continue to put their trust in us. We look forward to another successful year in 2020.