Vermont pays tribute to Len Crouse, its first deputy commissioner of captive insurance

The State of Vermont has honoured the legacy of Leonard “Len” Crouse after his passing on May 6, 2021.

Crouse was appointed the first deputy commissioner of Vermont’s newly created captive insurance division in 2003 and prior to that served as the director of captive insurance since 1990 for the Vermont Department of Financial Regulation, formerly the Department Banking, Insurance, Securities and Health Care Administration.

While deputy commissioner, Crouse was responsible for Vermont’s administration and regulation of captive insurance companies, at a time when the industry was rapidly growing.

Commissioner Michael Pieciak said Crouse’s legacy will live on within the department and the captive industry. “The number of captives licensed in Vermont tripled during Len’s time with the department and Vermont saw its highest growth when Len transitioned to the role of deputy commissioner,” he said.

Crouse received numerous awards for his contribution to the broader captive insurance industry, including the Captive Insurance Companies Association’s (CICA) Distinguished Service Award in 2007 and in 2017.

David Provost, Vermont’s current deputy commissioner of captive insurance, said Crouse had set the tone for the expectation of respect and communication that Vermont continues to strive for today. “Len made sure to greet everyone he saw,” said Provost. “He was genuinely interested in people, and when he asked how you were doing, he sincerely wanted to know.”

Richard Smith, president of the Vermont Captive Insurance Association, said: “As he made his way through a captive conference or event, he became known as someone who could be tough with you on a captive issue at a meeting earlier in the day and then have a drink with you later that evening as an old friend.”

Crouse’s family has asked that donations in his name be sent to Central Vermont Home Health and Hospice in Barre, Vermont, or a  Memorial Tree be planted in memory of him.

Vermont is still ranked first nationally and third globally for captive insurance, with over 1200 licensed captive insurance companies to date.