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New York Life unveils statue honoring Indian American agent Jaydev Patel
The statue sits in the garden next to the Jaydev R. Patel Conference Center, a space dedicated to Patel last October in honor of his half-century of service.
Jaydev R. Patel alongside his statue / Image- New York Life
New York Life, the largest mutual life insurance company in the U.S., unveiled a statue honoring Jaydev Patel, the most successful agent in the company's history. The statue, now a centerpiece of the company’s home office in Manhattan, recognizes Patel's 50-year career, marked by groundbreaking achievements in the life insurance industry.
The statue sits in the garden next to the Jaydev R. Patel Conference Center, a space dedicated to Patel last October in honor of his half-century of service. Known for his mentorship and leadership, Patel has qualified for New York Life’s prestigious Chairman’s Cabinet—representing the top 50 agents in the company—every year since the award was created.
Patel, who was ranked 64th on Forbes’ 2024 list of Top Financial Security Professionals and 5th on Forbes’ Best-in-State Financial Security Professionals for the same year, has been instrumental in helping New York Life expand into cultural markets, a significant growth area for the company today. His career has served as a model for other agents, and the company credits him with furthering its commitment to its career agency model.
“Jay has inspired and guided countless agents across the country. His statue provides a physical reminder of his influence on our company and the industry,” said Mark Madgett, executive vice president at New York Life.
Patel’s rise to prominence began early in his career. By 1983, he was named New York Life Council President, the company’s highest honor for agents. During his career, he became a life member of the Million Dollar Round Table, a global benchmark for top sales professionals in life insurance.
“Thanks to his tireless work ethic, unwavering dedication, and commitment to his clients, Jay has delivered financial security and peace of mind to thousands of individuals and their loved ones,” said Craig DeSanto, New York Life chair, president and CEO, in a previous statement from the company. “He’s placed a staggering amount of life insurance coverage with clients that far exceeds the amount of any other agent in New York Life’s 178-year history.”
Despite his vast accomplishments, Patel downplays the significance of awards, focusing instead on the personal connections forged through his work.
“There’s no profession, if done with integrity and compassion, that offers as much personal satisfaction,” Patel said. “The real success lies in the number of lives protected and the meaningful impact made.”
In addition to his professional success, Patel has been involved in philanthropy, particularly in his hometown of Sojitra, India, where he led efforts to renovate three schools. His commitment to giving back has cemented his reputation as a leader both in and outside the industry.
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