Anthony Stewart joined American Classic Agency (ACA) as an independent life insurance professional in 1997 while working full-time at a blue-chip company. What began as a way to earn extra income quickly became a calling rooted in service, financial stewardship, and helping families build lasting legacies. 

Known for his team-first  mindset, Anthony credits ACA’s supportive, family atmosphere for his early success and  has extended the opportunity to his own family—including his brother Alan—along with hundreds of agents he has developed over the years.  Through his leadership, his team has helped thousands of families across multiple states protect income, eliminate debt, and create financial security.  

On January 10, 2022, Anthony was named President of ACA. He is also a co-author of Saving Middle America, Securing Financial Dreams, and remains focused on expanding ACA’s reach to help more families overcome  financial uncertainty.

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After experiencing frustration with the economic barriers that often prevent employees from building true wealth and long-term security within corporate America, Tony made the life-changing decision to enter the Financial Services industry in 2004. Armed with determination and a desire to make a difference, Tony quickly became an industry leader, achieving instant success. Tony’s influence extends far beyond his personal achievements. He has dedicated himself to mentoring, training, and supporting hundreds of agents within his agency, empowering many to achieve remarkable levels of financial success. Under Tony’s guidance, numerous agents have become six- and seven-figure income earners, creating a ripple effect of success within the financial services industry. Tony’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, vision, and a commitment to uplifting others. He continues to inspire those around him, both within his agency and beyond, by proving that success comes not just from individual achievement but from the ability to empower and elevate others along the way.

Barbara has been a financial services professional since 1994, building a career shaped by adaptability, resilience, and a forward-thinking mindset. Guided by three principles—never say never, expect the unexpected, and embrace change—she has successfully navigated both personal and professional challenges while remaining a steady, effective leader. With a background spanning administrative work, healthcare, and marketing, Barbara brings a well-rounded perspective to her work and leadership style. She joined American Classic Agency (ACA) in 1997 and has since become known for breaking barriers and leading by example. Among her notable milestones, she was the first woman to sit on the American Classic Agency BoardRoom and the first woman to lead her base shop to $750,000 in sales premium in a single month. Today, Barbara serves as a Hierarchy Leader and Organization Leader, and she is a Classic Club Ring recipient and Three Diamonds earner. She also serves as executive chair of the Women Wellness & Wealth Conferences, where she helps empower women through education and community. At the heart of Barbara’s mission is mentorship—supporting women as agents and as individuals seeking financial literacy, independence, and long-term security. Contact US TODAY!

Joseph Mecha is a financial services professional with 20+ years of experience providing trusted guidance rooted in fiduciary responsibility and deep insurance expertise. As a Certified Financial Fiduciary, he is committed to putting clients’ best interests first and helping them make confident decisions through clear communication, transparency, and long-term relationship building. Over the course of his career, Joseph has supported a wide range of clients—from young professionals establishing a strong financial foundation to retirees focused on protecting and growing their nest eggs. Joseph specializes in personalized retirement planning, comprehensive financial risk management, and tailored insurance solutions that help families navigate life’s uncertainties. His work also includes tax-efficient strategies, estate planning support, and wealth preservation, always designed around each client’s goals and stage of life. He’s known for an adaptable approach that evolves with changing needs and market conditions while keeping protection and legacy at the center. In addition to his professional work, Joseph is the author of The Ladder of Dreams: My Immigrant Story from Rags to Riches, reflecting his belief in building generational wealth and leaving a legacy of service and impact. Contact US TODAY!

Organization Manager | ACA Boardroom Member

Deborah Short is a distinguished leader at American Classic Agency, recognized as a 2025 ACE Award Winner for her outstanding commitment to excellence. As a Base Shop Manager and member of the agency’s exclusive Boardroom, she plays a pivotal role in guiding her team while helping families achieve financial security through tax-favored income strategies and debt elimination.

Independent life insurance professionals come to ACA to succeed. They stay because of the unwavering integrity that defines this company. At ACA, you’re valued—whether you sell a policy every day or just once a year. Respect and support are part of the foundation here. Take Bob’s story. He was one of ACA Founder Jerry Policastro’s first recruits, and his journey is nothing short of inspiring. After a decade in the industry, Bob joined ACA in 1995. “Jerry is a true visionary,” Bob shares. “He built a system where agents thrive—offering great products, qualified leads, and unmatched support. In my first year alone, I earned $100,000.” Before ACA, Bob served 11 years as a special agent with the DEA, completed a combat aviation tour in Vietnam, and graduated from West Point. Now, with years of dedication and experience under his belt, Bob jokes that he’s “somewhere between the back nine and the clubhouse.” But his passion for service and excellence keeps him going. He continues to support his clients, train a team of agents across 22 states, and recruit new talent. His focus? Helping teams unlock their potential. “ACA is the perfect fit for professionals ready to expand their opportunities,” Bob says. “Property and casualty agents, tax preparers—anyone looking for a seamless way to offer life insurance can plug into ACA’s exceptional support, training, and top-tier carrier relationships.” Bob’s proudest recruit? His daughter, Stacy, who joined ACA in 2004. Together, they became the first father-daughter duo to earn the prestigious ACA ring—an achievement that symbolizes excellence and hard work. At ACA, success is more than a goal—it’s a shared journey. If you’re ready to grow, thrive, and make a lasting impact, ACA is here to help you every step of the way. Contact US TODAY!