It is with great sadness that we share the passing of former Maryland Insurance Commissioner Kathleen Birrane.
Commissioner Birrane was a respected leader, an incredible legal mind, and a true public servant whose impact on Maryland’s insurance industry will not be forgotten. Throughout her tenure as Commissioner, she was always accessible, thoughtful, and willing to engage in meaningful conversations with our association and our members. Her door was always open and the lines of communication were strong, something we deeply appreciated and never took for granted.
Appointed by Governor Larry Hogan in 2020 and reappointed by Governor Wes Moore, Commissioner Birrane earned bipartisan respect through her professionalism, fairness, and commitment to serving the people of Maryland. She guided the Maryland Insurance Administration through some of the industry’s most challenging and evolving times with intelligence, steadiness, and integrity.
Prior to serving as Commissioner, Kathleen built an extraordinary career in insurance law and regulation, including leadership roles at DLA Piper and service as Principal Counsel to the Maryland Insurance Administration. Her knowledge of the insurance industry was unmatched, but even more notable was the respect and kindness she showed to those she worked with.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, she was deeply committed to her community and dedicated countless hours to civic and charitable organizations throughout Maryland.
On behalf of Big I Maryland, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Kathleen’s family, friends, colleagues, and the entire Maryland Insurance Administration during this difficult time.
Her legacy of leadership, service, and professionalism will leave a lasting mark on Maryland’s insurance community.