What a Great Career at GBU Looks Like

July 26, 2021
After more than 40 years with GBU, Sales Support Specialist Jerilyn McCollum is ready to retire. In her time with GBU, Jerilyn has gained extensive knowledge to pass on to future GBU employees, so she will continue consulting and mentoring new sales employees on a part-time basis. We asked Jerilyn a few questions about her career at GBU so that we can share with all of you what a great career at GBU looks like.

What first brought you to GBU?
My high school friend’s dad was the National Sales Manager at GBU. She contacted another friend to ask if she wanted an interview with GBU; that friend had just accepted a job with another company. I told my friend I would be interested in an interview and was hired!

What has changed the most since you started working here?
As you can imagine, in a span of 42 years much has changed over the years. GBU has grown in so many ways; from the executive structure, product portfolio, agent growth, expanding fraternal programs, financial strength, employee additions and on and on.

What is your best memory from your time at GBU?
It’s very hard to pinpoint a specific memory; but, when I remember GBU I will first remember all of the wonderful friends and relationships I have had over the years. I honestly could not have hand-picked better co-workers and executive staff than those that I was fortunate enough to work with over the years. 

What advice would you give to new employees just starting out here?
GBU is on the upward move, be dedicated to your job, learn all you can from the “seasoned” staff and don’t ever hesitate to voice your opinions and ideas.

What do you think GBU will be like 40 years in the future?
I truly believe that the solid foundation built by past management, coupled with the vision of our current management, will take GBU to new heights over future years.

What was your favorite movie when you started at GBU and what is your favorite movie now?
Sound of Music, then and now!

You have the floor. Is there anything else that you would like to say about your fantastic career?
I have been very fortunate to have worked with so many wonderful GBU members and producers over the past 42 years. You will always have my heartfelt gratitude for the support and friendship that you have given to me in all the ups and downs a lifetime can bring. Wishing everyone health and happiness always.
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July 27, 2026
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July 23, 2026
It is time, once again, for the GBU Life annual summer photo contest! Send us your favorite photo that depicts the contest theme, The Golden Hour.