By: Steve Coates
01/13/13 02:52:32 PM
Matt Atnip has been named the new Executive Director of the Ozark Trail Associaton, effective immediately. Atnip, who had been a Senior Claim Examiner at Reinsurance Group of America (RGA), will be in charge of managing the programs and operations of the OTA, as well as fundraising for the organization. The OTA will be focusing initially on programs and operations, but wishes to expand its mission to a wider range of trail enthusiasts and potential donors. Atnip will lead this effort.
In addition to his position at RGA, Atnip served most recently as the OTA Vice-President and served on the OTA Board of Directors as a volunteer. He has also served the organization as Treasurer, construction manager, crew and event manager for OTA Mega Events, USFS certified sawyer and chair of the construction and maintenance committee. His involvement with the OTA dates back to 2004. While he will relinquish his Board member and VP roles given his new position as Executive Director, he will remain active in many facets of the OTA’s events and activities.
"The presence of a day-to-day Executive Director strengthens our ability to meet the needs of our volunteers, agency partners and donors," noted Steve Coates, President of the OTA Board of Directors. "Matt's deep knowledge of the Ozark Trail through his involvement as a volunteer with the OTA and the background he brings in working with volunteers will greatly benefit our overall operations, our programs and our trail community."
Before joining the OTA, Atnip analyzed high-dollar life insurance claims for RGA, where he also developed automated solutions for assessing and managing claim records, and handled complex claims including foreign deaths and medical and financial misrepresentation. He also facilitated classes on medical terminology and other industry topics, served in a management role and holds several professional insurance certifications.
Atnip studied Management Information Systems at Southern Illinois University, Edwardsville. He and his wife Kathy, along with their family who are all active OTA volunteers, live in Hazelwood, Missouri, a suburb of St. Louis.