SURETY UNDERWRITERS ASSOCIATION OF
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
ABOUT SUASC
The Surety Underwriters Association of Southern California is an organization of surety companies, surety agents and other related businesses with an interest in corporate surety-ship in Southern California. Since 1928 the SUASC's purpose has been to:
- Educate and inform our members and the community about issues relating to corporate surety-ship.
- Monitor legislative/regulatory activity and where appropriate, take steps to influence its outcome.
- To promote an awareness and understanding of the benefits of corporate surety-ship. Continue to collaborate within our industry to ensure best practices.
2026 SUASC Board
Matthew Caldwell, President
Matthew Caldwell is a Bond Manager for Great American Insurance Company and has been in the surety industry since 2015 after graduating from Cal Poly Pomona in 2014 with a degree in finance. Matthew handles contract surety business for the Southern California, Arizona, and Southern Nevada regions. Born and raised in Southern California, in his free time, Matthew enjoys spending it with his family, crushing 300-yard drives on the golf course, and watching the LA sports teams.
Shavonne Lai, Vice President
Shavonne Lai is an Underwriter at RLI and has been in the surety industry since 2016 after graduating from SPU with a business administration degree with a finance concentration. Shavonne was born and raised on the island of Guam.
In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family and creating handmade ceramics at a local pottery studio.
Damian Pintor, Secretary
Damian Pintor is an Underwriter at Sompo and has been in the surety industry since 2022 after graduating from Cal State Fullerton with a business administration degree with a risk management and insurance concentration. Damian was born and raised in Southern California and grew up playing basketball and volleyball throughout his childhood. He’s a die-hard Laker fan and in his free time he enjoys working out and spending time with his friends on the golf course.
Connor Carlson, Treasurer
Connor Carlson is an underwriter at Travelers and have been in the industry since 2023 after graduating from Cal State Fullerton in 2022 with a business administration degree. Connor was born and raised in Southern California and grew up playing soccer. Outside of work, he enjoys golfing, spending time with friends, and watching Formula 1 races and Manchester United games.