Senior Leadership Team
Tara Sassman, CISR
Director of Property and Casualty
Tara Sassman brings over 16 years of expertise in the insurance industry to her role as Director of Property and Casualty at 28 Insurance. In this capacity, she oversees compliance with industry regulations, conducts in-depth risk analyses to deliver customized coverage solutions, and fosters strong relationships with clients and carriers. Tara is also dedicated to staff development, leading training initiatives, and implementing strategic plans that drive agency growth and operational excellence.
Tara earned her Bachelor of Science in Business Marketing from California State University, Fresno, in 2007. Beyond her professional achievements, she enjoys staying active through Pilates, cultivating her garden, baking, and spending quality time with her beloved dog, Oliver.
Shanae Sanchez
Property & Casualty Marketing Manager
With over a decade of experience in the insurance industry, Shanae Sanchez serves as the Property & Casualty Marketing Manager, where she plays a pivotal role in developing and executing marketing strategies. Shanae excels at building and nurturing strong relationships with carriers and clients, ensuring that customized insurance solutions align with the unique needs of businesses. Her expertise and dedication contribute to the continued growth and success of the organization.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Shanae enjoys crafting, baking, and reading. She has been happily married for six years and is the proud mother of two intelligent and energetic boys.
Diana Alvarez
Director of Account Management – Employee Benefits
Diana Alvarez brings over 31 years of extensive experience in the insurance industry to her role as Director of Account Management for the Employee Benefits Department at 28 Insurance. Diana’s career began at Aetna, where she gained invaluable expertise handling member benefits and claims. Her exceptional performance led to her promotion as a department head for a self-insured division, where she honed her leadership and operational management skills.
At 28 Insurance, Diana oversees all aspects of the Employee Benefits Department, ensuring seamless service delivery within the department employees. Her responsibilities include resolving claim issues, addressing benefit inquiries, managing employee enrollments and terminations, handling billing concerns, and advising clients through provider network negotiations. Additionally, Diana serves as the liaison for all clients of 28 Insurance’s Strategic Advisory Group, further strengthening relationships and driving collaborative success.
Outside of her professional achievements, Diana values quality time with her parents, children, and beloved fur babies. She also enjoys traveling and exploring new destinations in her spare time.
Destiny McCray
Senior Account Manager – Employee Benefits
Destiny McCray brings over a decade of experience in the insurance industry to her role as Senior Account Manager in the Employee Benefits Department at 28 Insurance. A proud graduate of UCLA, Destiny is also a UCLA Softball National Champion (Go Bruins!). Her competitive drive and teamwork mindset translate seamlessly into her professional career.
In her role, Destiny collaborates with the 28 insurance benefit consultants, the marketing team, the eligibility team, and the compliance team to ensure all client service needs are met with precision and excellence. She is committed to aligning service delivery with client expectations and objectives, contributing to long-term success and client satisfaction.
Outside of work, Destiny is passionate about coaching youth sports, spending quality time with her family, and enjoying “mommy dates” with her daughter.
Jackie Tidwell
Senior Benefits & Compliance Manager
Jackie has been in the Insurance Industry since 2007. She serves as the Senior Benefits and Compliance Manager at 28 Insurance. In this role, she oversees benefits administration and regulatory compliance, ensuring clients receive accurate and up-to-date guidance in a dynamic regulatory environment.
Jackie works closely with clients and internal teams to manage complex benefits programs, maintain compliance with state and federal regulations, and deliver solutions that align with the organizational goals. With a strong attention to detail and a commitment to service excellence, she plays a key role in supporting both client success and operational integrity, reflecting the leadership demonstrated across the organization.
Outside of work, Jackie enjoys spending time with her family, exploring the outdoors, rooting for the Buffalo Bills and making memories with friends and loved ones. Whether it’s an adventure in the nature or a fun casino date, she values connection, balance, and making the most of every moment—always bringing a sense of humor and a love for making others laugh. Go Bills!!
Maribel Hernandez
Director of Marketing – Employee Benefits
With over 15 years of experience in the insurance industry, Maribel Hernandez serves as the Director of Marketing for Employee Benefits at 28 Insurance. In this critical role, she leads the overall marketing department, working closely with consultants to ensure clients maximize their renewals, implement cutting-edge cost-containment strategies, and receive tailored, innovative solutions that align with their unique needs. Maribel also oversees the marketing efforts for 28 Insurance’s exclusive benefits captive, providing clients with strategic advantages and customized benefits solutions. Her expertise, strategic mindset, and commitment to excellence contribute to the firm’s continued success and client satisfaction.
Outside of her professional role, Maribel cherishes quality time with her family, including her three adult children and two grandchildren. She also enjoys traveling and exploring new experiences.
Kelly Mabary
Director of Eligibility – Employee Benefits
Kelly Mabary serves as the Director of Eligibility for Employee Benefits at 28 Insurance, bringing over five years of expertise in the insurance industry. In her role, Kelly leads the eligibility department, working closely with consultants, customer service representatives, and marketing teams to ensure seamless management of eligibility processes and audits for clients.
Her responsibilities include overseeing all eligibility updates, ensuring timely additions, changes, and terminations with insurance carriers, and managing open enrollment audits to guarantee accurate client information. Additionally, Kelly maintains 28 Insurance’s ticketing system, meticulously documenting and tracking all critical interactions with insurance carriers to uphold efficiency and compliance.
Kelly’s dedication to precision and client service plays a vital role in optimizing operational workflows and delivering an exceptional experience for 28 Insurance clients.
Outside of work, Kelly enjoys traveling and spending time at the racetrack with her family.