Shawn Collins takes over State Farm office

Shawn Collins held a ribbon cutting announcing he was taking over the State Farm office previously operated by Mark Schanne who is retiring

When he learned that Mark Schanne was considering retiring after almost 40 years in business, Shawn Collins came to him and asked what the possibility would be to take over the office. Schanne provided Collins with the steps he would need to take and, on Monday, December 8, Collins held a ribbon cutting, officially announcing he would be taking over the office from Schanne.

“I was born and raised in Milford, so it is great to be here in my hometown,” Collins said. “I worked with Mark in the past and when I heard he was thinking about retiring, I came to him to see what it would take to take over this office. He has been such a mentor and help throughout the process. Our goal is to continue the same customer service he began when he opened almost 40 years ago.”

Schanne explained that after 38 years, he decided it was time for him to retire. Soon, he and his wife will move to Charleston to be closer to their children, two of which are State Farm agents in that area.

“I have been blessed to have this office in Milford and to work with so many people, both as staff and clients,” Schanne said. “Shawn worked for me several years ago and came to me when he heard I was considering retiring. He did the hard work, getting certified and learning the financial aspects of this business. That was the hard part and he stepped up to the plate to do it.

Collins stated that there were six staff members when he took over and that four of them will remain on staff after Schanne leaves. This ensures clients will continue to see familiar faces when they visit the office.

Mayor Archie Campbell welcomed Collins to Milford, wishing him much success in his new endeavor.

“On behalf of the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Milford, I want to say welcome to our city,” Pat Abel, President of the chamber, said. “We hope to have an opportunity to work with you and your new business very soon.”

The office is located at 915 South Dupont Boulevard in Milford. For more information, call 302-422-2235.