Ashley (Ash) Spoto, M.Ed - Chief Underwriter and Director (Retired)

Houston, TX – Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Thelma Perryman May is acknowledged as a Pinnacle Professional Member Inner Circle of Excellence for her contributions to Risk Management and Health Insurance.

Thelma Perryman May has built a distinguished career in the health insurance industry, earning recognition for her expertise in risk management, underwriting, and insurance leadership. Over a career spanning more than four decades, she established herself as a trusted professional whose commitment to excellence, continuous learning, and service helped shape her success as a retired Chief Underwriter and Director.

Mrs. May is widely respected for her expertise in risk management and health insurance operations. Throughout her career, she demonstrated a strong ability to navigate complex industry challenges while helping organizations and clients make informed decisions regarding insurance coverage and long term risk management strategies.

Her academic foundation was established at Purdue University Krannert School of Management, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Operations Management. Committed to professional development, she later achieved the prestigious Fellow, Life Management Institute designation. This accomplishment reflected her dedication to rigorous continuing education and her commitment to remaining at the forefront of industry knowledge as regulations, products, and client needs evolved.

Mrs. May’s professional development has been further strengthened through active participation in respected industry organizations. Her affiliations include the American Association for Long Term Care Insurance, the Life Office Management Association, the American Farm Bureau Federation Young Farmers and Ranchers Leadership Conference, and the Underwriter Study Group. These organizations provided opportunities to expand her expertise while contributing to broader discussions within the insurance profession.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Mrs. May has dedicated significant time and energy to community service and charitable outreach. She actively supports initiatives that help families obtain school supplies and clothing through partnerships with local ministries and community organizations. As a life member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, she remains committed to programs that strengthen families and improve the lives of others through service and advocacy.

Her philanthropic efforts have extended internationally as well. Following the devastating earthquake in Haiti, Mrs. May played a key role in supporting recovery efforts by helping adopt a school and clinic, coordinating with churches to send critical supplies, and participating in fundraising efforts that generated funds to assist those affected by the disaster.

Throughout her career and community involvement, Mrs. May has earned numerous honors recognizing both her professional accomplishments and her commitment to service. These include the Service Appreciation Award from Antioch Missionary Baptist Church in 2020, the Living Legend Award from the Blue Triangle Multicultural Association in 2017, the Legacy and Leadership Award from Holman Street Baptist Church in 2015, and the Woman of Faith Award from Antioch Missionary Baptist Church in 2010. Professional awards include Marquis Albert Nelson Lifetime Achievement in 2026, Marquis Who’s Who Honored Listee in 2026, Strathmore Who’s Who Worldwide 2010, Cambridge Who’s Who 2007, and the National Reference Institute Women Executives Who’s Who 1990.
Outside of her professional and philanthropic activities, Mrs. May values spending time with family and enjoys traveling to historic sites and beaches to relax.

Looking toward the future, Mrs. May plans to establish a consulting firm dedicated to helping community members navigate the often complex world of health insurance. She is particularly passionate about assisting seniors who face challenges understanding Medicare plans, supplemental coverage options, enrollment timelines, and healthcare costs. Drawing on decades of industry experience, she hopes to provide personalized guidance that empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare coverage.

Guided by a commitment to service, education, and leadership, Mrs. May continues to inspire others through her professional achievements, community involvement, and dedication to helping people secure a more confident and informed future.