Don Bullard
Don Bullard concluded his 36-year career in the insurance industry in 2020, retiring at the age of 71. His extensive experience began with State Farm, where he rose to prominence, and later continued as the founder of Don Bullard Insurance. Over the years, he earned multiple certifications, including CPCU (Chartered Property and Casualty Underwriter) in 1978, CLU (Chartered Life Underwriter) in 1980, CHfC (Chartered Financial Consultant) in 1993, and CASL (Chartered Advisor for Senior Living) in 2005.
A Distinguished Tenure with State Farm
Beginning his journey in 1972 as a State Farm agent, Don built his agency from the ground up through relentless hard work, often putting in long hours over five days a week. His efforts paid off, and by 1995, he had become the highest-ranking State Farm agent in both the United States and Canada. For more than a decade, he consistently ranked among the top 10 agents within the company, even achieving the number-one position multiple times.
Establishing Don Bullard Insurance in Wilmington, NC
In 2008, Don made the bold decision to leave State Farm and establish his independent insurance agency at the age of 59. He started fresh, building a new client base, securing insurance carrier partnerships, and crafting a solid marketing strategy that quickly positioned his agency as a critical player in Wilmington, North Carolina.
Within just a year, Don Bullard Insurance experienced rapid growth, eventually serving over 20,000 households. The agency offers a wide array of personal insurance products, from auto and homeowners insurance to flood and life insurance. By 2016, his agency had grown to rival the success he enjoyed at State Farm, attracting the attention of Acrisure, a leading brokerage firm. He sold his agency to Acrisure that year, continuing to work for another 3 ½ years before retiring. The agency continues to thrive under the Acrisure brand, contributing to the company’s status as one of the fastest-growing brokerages in the industry.
Recognition and Industry Accomplishments
Don’s career was marked by numerous accolades, including winning every major award for production and profitability at State Farm. He received the prestigious Presidents Club Trophy 12 times and qualified for the president’s club over 70 times. He also traveled extensively across the U.S. and Canada, sharing his expertise and helping other agencies develop their practices.
Military Service: A Veteran’s Valor
Don Bullard’s dedication to service extends beyond his professional career. After graduating from New Hanover High School in Wilmington in 1967, he joined the Army as a Warrant Officer Candidate. Upon completing Army Flight School in 1968, he served as a helicopter pilot, undertaking three tours in Vietnam.
During his service, Don demonstrated extraordinary bravery, serving with the A Company 123rd Aviation Battalion Americal Division and later with the 101st Airborne Division. He was promoted to Captain at the age of 22, but his military career was cut short when he was seriously injured during a mission in the A Shau Valley. Despite this, Don’s service was recognized with numerous honors, including two Distinguished Flying Crosses, a Bronze Star, 36 Air Medals, an Army Commendation Medal, and a Purple Heart.
A-Pillar of the Wilmington Community
For more than 50 years, Don Bullard has been a vital part of the Wilmington community. His contributions include serving as Past President of the Seartoma Club and Past Treasurer of the Port City Kiwanis. He has also been an active volunteer with organizations like Cape Fear Habitat for Humanity, United Way, and the Cape Fear Literacy Council.
In addition to his community service, Don made a lasting impact by personally tutoring and supporting a special needs student for 11 years, ultimately helping the student graduate high school. Now retired, he spends his days traveling, boating, and cruising, enjoying a well-deserved respite after a lifetime of dedication to his profession, his country, and his community.