Chosen from the nation’s best, Missouri State University junior Van McNutt and senior Abigail Staiger were named 2026 Anita Benedetti Student Involvement Program (ABSIP) Scholars for RIMS (Risk and Insurance Management Society, Inc.) RISKWORLD®.

The highly competitive process drew applications from top students across the country. Only 20 were selected nationwide, making this a significant achievement.

As part of the program, sponsored by The Spencer Educational Foundation, the duo will participate in RISKWORLD® 2026, May 3-6 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Seizing opportunities

The paths that led risk management and insurance majors McNutt and Staiger to this achievement may not look the same. But they share one common thread: getting involved early made all the difference.

Staiger’s interest in the field is deeply personal. Growing up in an agricultural environment, she saw firsthand how unpredictable and risky the industry can be.

“My grandfather owns a dairy farm and my dad works in crop farming,” she said. “That inspired me to pursue a career where I can help individuals and businesses better manage those risks, especially in areas like agriculture, where it’s often overlooked.”

She and McNutt found opportunities to grow through the Gamma Iota Sigma chapter at Missouri State. This international professional fraternity promotes, encourages and sustains student interest in insurance, risk management and actuarial science as professions.

Through this chapter, their journey toward RISKWORLD® began with the guidance of Sandra Meyers, clinical assistant professor of finance, economics and risk management.

“This opportunity goes back to our incredible advisor,” McNutt said. “I completed the application, wrote the essay and she went above and beyond by writing a strong recommendation to help me stand out.”

Staiger added, “Opportunities like this don’t come from waiting; they come from showing up and stepping forward.”

Experiencing the RIMS community

At RISKWORLD®, aspiring risk leaders get to connect with industry professionals and see how classroom concepts come to life in the real world.

It helps them to expand knowledge, gain new perspectives and build meaningful professional relationships.

The conference features more than 100 sessions covering emerging topics across the industry, along with discussions on pressing issues, such as artificial intelligence, tariffs and global disruptions. The event also includes case studies and interactive sessions designed to connect theory with practice.

For McNutt, the opportunity represents both recognition and growth.

“It’s such a privilege to be named an ABSIP Scholar,” he said. “I’m excited to fully immerse myself in the experience, learn more about risk management and insurance field and grow both professionally and personally.”

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