Meet WoodmenLife’s March 2026 Sure Start Winner: Sussie DeVeney

WoodmenLife is committed to offering training to our Sales Representatives to help them grow and develop the skills they need to best serve our members. New Representatives are invited to Sure Start, a series of lessons that helps them kick off their careers with WoodmenLife. During the 12 months following their Sure Start education, Representatives have a friendly competition with their classmates to see how well they put their lessons into action and compare their sales achievements.

Get to know our March 2026 Sure Start Winner: Sussie DeVeney of Omaha, NE.

Congratulations on your Sure Start victory! How did you celebrate?

When I found out, I was sitting in a library two hours from home in between meetings. I was absolutely thrilled, but I had to contain my excitement so I didn’t disturb anyone! As soon as I got home, my family and I went out to dinner to celebrate the amazing news.

What inspired you to choose a career with WoodmenLife?

I grew up with deep WoodmenLife roots — my dad worked at the Tower, and my aunt served as a Sales Representative before joining the Home Office. As a former third-grade teacher in a high-need school, I’ve always felt a strong calling to help others. When I stepped away from teaching in 2020, I knew I needed to find a new path that would allow me to continue making a meaningful impact. I found that opportunity at WoodmenLife, where I can help individuals secure their financial futures while supporting the community around me.

Have you always wanted to pursue a career in sales?

I never imagined myself pursuing a career in sales. My husband has always told me I’d be great at it, but I never truly believed him.

What drives you to deliver great service for your members?

I genuinely love helping people. Every day, I wake up knowing that by the end of the day, I’ll have made a meaningful difference — whether by helping someone secure their financial future, updating an existing policy, or simply connecting with members throughout the day. It’s incredibly fulfilling, and it’s one of the reasons I’m so passionate about the work I do.

What does success look like to you?

To me, success means ensuring every one of my members is well taken care of, while continuing to welcome new members into the WoodmenLife family. It also means maintaining a healthy work-life balance so I can show up as my best self for the people I serve.

Tell us a little about how you’re involved in your community. Why is community outreach so important to you?

I am actively involved in our chapter meetings and enjoy supporting our communities in a variety of ways. This year, my goal is to expand my involvement by joining additional organizations and participating in more community groups throughout the area. I’m committed to strengthening these connections and continuing to make a positive impact where I live and work.

Do you have a particularly memorable moment from your time so far with WoodmenLife?

One of my most memorable experiences was attending Pacesetters Sales Academy in Chicago. I arrived not knowing a single person, yet I left feeling incredibly inspired. I had the opportunity to meet some of the most amazing and motivating associates in our organization, and the connections I made there have stayed with me ever since.

What are your goals for the future?

Looking ahead, one of my stretch goals is to be a Top Hat winner (the highest honor for members of the Sales Force). My focus this coming year is to obtain my securities license, be within the top 40 Representatives at WoodmenLife, and qualify for next year’s Incentive Trip. Over the next few years, I hope to be a strong contender for Top Hat by continuing to grow, develop, and serve my members at the highest level.

Read More

Meet WoodmenLife’s February 2026 Sure Start Winner: Sam Warick

WEB936