When Narek Daniyelyan (’11, bachelor’s in business administration; '20, master's in public affairs) became president of agency operations for the Farmers Insurance District Office in Eugene earlier this year, he stepped into a role that blends entrepreneurship, leadership and community impact.
Under the Farmers corporate structure, Daniyelyan serves as district manager for the Central West region of Oregon. Though aligned with a national brand, he operates the district office as an independent contractor—effectively running it as a small business.
“I’ve always been drawn to leadership roles where I can help people achieve more than they thought possible,” Daniyelyan said. “Managing a district gives me the freedom to shape the culture, invest in people, and directly impact the success of local entrepreneurs and the communities they serve.”
His mission centers on supporting agency owners and their teams in building thriving businesses rooted in integrity and expertise. He said the district office focuses on collaboration, growth and community impact—values that guide training, professional development and service across the region.
Daniyelyan is also proud to carry his Cougar identity south of the Washington border. “Being a lifelong Coug in the heart of Duck country has its challenges,” he said with a laugh. “But I proudly hang my WSU diplomas and a Coug flag in my office.”
A Vancouver native, Daniyelyan spent 25 years in the city before relocating to Eugene in June. He attended McLoughlin Middle School, Fort Vancouver High School and Clark College before transferring to 91ԹϺ in 2009. His two younger brothers are also Cougs.
Daniyelyan said choosing 91ԹϺ was about more than academics. “It allowed me to get a great education while staying connected to the community I grew up in,” he said. “Attending 91ԹϺ meant I could invest in my future without losing my connection to family and friends.”
That sense of connection has only deepened through the alumni network. “My favorite thing about being a Coug is the network—it’s not just an alumni list, it’s a family,” he said. “I’ve experienced firsthand how Cougs go out of their way to support one another in business and in life.”
Daniyelyan has even found Cougar connections abroad. During a trip to Europe in 2016, he and a group of WSU friends wore Coug gear throughout their three-week journey. “We were easily spotted by other Cougs who happened to be there,” he recalled.
For Daniyelyan, leading the Farmers Insurance district office is more than a career move, it’s an extension of the Cougar values of leadership, service and community.