Department of Insurance, Securities and Banking: Press Release

Washington, DC -- DC Insurance and Securities Commissioner Lawrence H. Mirel today announced top insurance department personnel changes. Thomas E. Hampton has been appointed Deputy Commissioner and Margaret Schruender Director of the Insurance Bureau.

"Mr. Hampton brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the role of overseeing the daily operations of the DC Insurance and Securities Department (DISR). He will also be invaluable in implementing the important programs and policies we are pursuing to protect District consumers. Ms. Schruender has invaluable experience in management as well as policy and project implementation. The appointment of these two people is key to the overall goals and strategic plans of DISR," said Commissioner Mirel.

Mr. Hampton has been with DISR since 1988, recently as Assistant Deputy Commissioner for the Financial Examination Division. Hampton was responsible for planning, directing and coordinating the activities of the Financial Examination, Financial Surveillance and Insurance Tax Divisions. For the past two years, Hampton also has been acting as the Department's Operations Manager.

Ms. Schruender worked in a wide range of positions in the insurance industry for 17 years prior to joining DISR in 1988. Before her present appointment, Schruender was Assistant Deputy Commissioner of the Consumer and Professional Services Division. Schruender also served as Program Officer of the Licensing Division from 1988 to 1994.

Commissioner Mirel also announced the appointment of John Wallace as Director of Office Systems and Technology. Mr.Wallace has been a Financial Examiner with the Financial Examination Division of DISR. In this capacity he developed and implemented a financial analysis system for health maintenance organizations. Wallace is currently working on projects to implement a comprehensive document control and imaging system for the Department.

"Mr. Wallace is a tremendous resource to the Department. His work will streamline our document system and enhance the productivity of the office. He will be instrumental in DISR's plans to provide services to insurance providers on-line and to provide consumer information through the Internet," concluded Commissioner Mirel.