This year signifies a remarkable milestone for Security National Life – our 60th anniversary. We celebrate 60 years of dedication to protecting families, empowering agents, and building a legacy of trust and care. At the heart of Security National’s legacy are the stories of people it has touched. From the families who were able to honor their loved ones to the agents who have built thriving careers, Security National is a credit to those that have made up the last 60 years.
One of the most impactful people in our company’s history is our founder, George Quist. Security National would not exist without his vision and determination. With a background in business and investment, George found his way to the life insurance industry, helping to develop one of the first life insurance companies based in Hawaii. In 1965, he moved back to his home state of Utah with the goal of founding his own life insurance company. Starting with only $543,000 in assets, he began our company in a small, rented house in Salt Lake City, Utah. Security National now serves families across the nation and works with thousands of agents each year to provide insurance coverage.
Over the years, George grew Security National to include cemeteries and mortuaries, life insurance companies, and mortgage banks. He was active in industry associations, being a founding member of the National Alliance of Life Companies and serving on the Board of Directors and as President of the National Association of Life Companies, one of the largest trade associations of its kind at the time. Through his guidance, Security National was able to develop into the industry leader it is today.
One of George’s notable traits was the large Stetson hat he wore most days. This timeless western hat may have seemed a bit out of place in a Utah boardroom, but that suited George just fine. After decades of wearing his collection, George was approached by a life insurance agent who wanted to know how he could get one of his iconic hats. So, George struck a deal with the agent – accomplish his sales goals and the CEO would ensure he got his own hat. Unfortunately, the agent’s aspirations outpaced his work ethic, and he never did quite earn that hat, but the beginnings of an idea were born.
After a lifetime of dedication to our company, George Quist passed away in 2012. When looking for a way to honor his memory, company leadership remembered the story of the agent and George’s hat. As a way of paying tribute to his memory and the symbol of his hat, leadership created a new award that would be presented to sales managers who exceeded their Founder’s Month goals. Each of these sales leaders would receive the Stetson hat of their choice.
It’s been many years since this tradition began, and each year we honor George Quist and our company’s history by awarding Stetson hats at our End of Year awards. Just as the Stetson brand has a reputation for quality and excellence, so too does Security National. These hats are a way to honor where we came from and the man who made all of that possible.
We’re excited to spend this coming year celebrating the many things that make Security National unique. As we reflect on the past, we also remain excited about the future of our company. With a renewed commitment to financial stability, customer care, and agent success, Security National is excited to continue serving families for generations to come.
