At Cothran Schoonover Insurance, our story is rooted in dedication, growth, and community trust. With deep roots in Virginia and North Carolina, our agency has grown from a single-family-run operation to a multi-location independent insurance agency known for its personalized service and innovative approach.
A Legacy That Began in 1981
The agency was founded in 1981 by Bill Cothran, who started a Nationwide Insurance office in Lynchburg, Virginia, with the support of his wife, Sharon. Over the years, they built a strong reputation in the community by focusing on personal lines insurance and delivering exceptional service to local families. Their son, Wes Cothran, joined the family business in 1999 after graduating from William & Mary.
Wes quickly discovered a passion for commercial insurance and began expanding the agency’s commercial lines book. By 2013, he had acquired the agency from his parents and led it into a new era of growth—adding more carriers, expanding into new markets, and modernizing operations.
Embracing Independence and Growth
In 2019, following Nationwide Insurance’s shift from a captive to an independent model, Wes embraced the change. He invested in an advanced Agency Management System, secured contracts with top-rated carriers including Cincinnati, Auto-Owners, Travelers, Grange, and Universal Property, and re-trained his team to operate with an independent agency mindset. That same year, Cothran Schoonover Insurance expanded to include offices in Amherst, VA and Walnut Cove, NC—solidifying its presence in Southside Virginia and the Piedmont Triad region of North Carolina.
Rachel Schoonover: A Parallel Journey of Success
Rachel Schoonover began her insurance career in 1999 as a Nationwide scratch agent in Danville, Virginia. She quickly validated her contract and built a thriving agency, eventually purchasing a million-dollar book of business in Horsepasture, VA. Her strategic acquisitions included five additional agencies across Collinsville, Danville, and Lynchburg. Like Wes, she transitioned successfully from an Exclusive to Independent model, securing high-performing carrier partnerships and building a scalable agency.
In 2020, Rachel acquired an independent agency in Collinsville, VA, further expanding her footprint. Her dedication to operational excellence, even relocating to Lynchburg temporarily to manage integrations, underscores her commitment to her team and customers.
Merging Strengths: The Formation of Cothran Schoonover Insurance
In 2021, Wes and Rachel officially merged their agencies, bringing together complementary strengths: Wes with his technological expertise, and Rachel with her strong community relationships and business development skills. This partnership allowed for a defined division of labor—Customer Service Representatives, Account Managers, and Policy Review Specialists—improving both client service and internal efficiency.
Their merger led to significant agency growth, even amidst a challenging insurance market.
Conclusion: A Future Built on Innovation, Experience, and Community Trust
Cothran Schoonover Insurance is more than just an insurance agency—it’s a growing team of dedicated professionals committed to helping families, businesses, and communities thrive. With offices in Lynchburg, Amherst, Collinsville, Danville, and Walnut Cove, and plans for continued expansion, we’re proud to offer insurance solutions you can count on. Whether you’re seeking auto, home, business, or life insurance, we invite you to discover the Cothran Schoonover difference.
