Meet Our Team
We are proud of our dedicated, community-focused team. Get to know the people behind the policies:
Mike Burns
Founder & Principal Agent
With over 30 years of experience in the insurance industry, Mike founded Powell Insurance Agency Inc. to bring honest, personal service back to the insurance experience. He believes in building long-term relationships with clients and takes the time to evaluate the customer’s needs. He is passionate about helping families protect their financial future and creating a business culture centered around providing exceptional customer service.
In his free time, he is a passionate outdoor enthusiast and enjoys hunting and camping. He enjoys traveling and spending time with family (including his two kids and wife) and relaxation is found while creating amazing BBQ and other delicious food.
Gretchen Coates
Licensed Insurance Agent
With a background in customer service and a strong foundation in personal lines insurance, Gretchen is all about creating clarity in what can often feel like a confusing process. She believes no question is too small, and her goal is to ensure every client understands their policy and feels secure in their coverage. Gretchen specializes in homeowners, auto, and personal umbrella policies and is known for her responsiveness, empathy, and attention to detail.
In her free time, she enjoys being outside in her flower garden, and time in the sun with her daughter and two dogs. Gretchen has a very strong family-oriented background and spends as much time as she can with her immediate family whether that’s camping, cookouts, and pool parties.
Danielle (Dani) Bell
Licensed Insurance Agent
Dani is known for her meticulous attention to detail and her commitment to getting every aspect of her clients’ coverage just right. With a background in administrative operations and a strong foundation in personal lines insurance, Dani brings a high level of precision to every policy she handles. She specializes in personal lines including home, auto, mobile home and motorcycle and takes the time to review each client’s coverage thoroughly ensuring nothing is overlooked and every question is answered. Her organized approach, clear communication, and follow-through make her a trusted ally for clients who value accuracy, transparency, and personal service.
Outside of the office she enjoys spending all her time with her husband and daughter. She loves animals, raises chickens and ducks, and can often be found reading a book. This summer she can’t wait to go on vacation to OBX and spend every day at the beach relaxing and looking for shells.
Sara Stein
Licensed Insurance Agent
Sara is a newly licensed insurance agent with a passion for helping people protect what matters most. With a background in customer service and a strong desire to grow in the insurance field, she brings fresh energy and a commitment to making the process smooth and understandable for every client. Sara focuses on home, auto, and renters’ insurance and is supported by a team of experienced agents who help ensure clients receive personalized and reliable coverage. Her approachable style and eagerness to learn make her a valued part of the Powell Insurance Agency team.
When she’s not saving people money on their insurance, she is officiating boys and girls Section V volleyball. Being a certified USA and NCAA volleyball official since 2022 she plans to continue growing in the years to come! Having earned her Bachelor of Arts in Music in 2022, she fills her free time with practicing, performing, and experiencing music whenever and wherever she can. Sara is also practiced in the art of Jiu-Jitsu and spends time on the mat to relieve stress and strengthen her body and mind.
Todd Hamann
Licensed Insurance Agent and Medicare Specialist
Todd is a trusted resource for clients navigating the complexities of Medicare. As a licensed insurance agent with a specialized focus on Medicare plans, he helps individuals understand their options, enroll with confidence, and feel secure in their healthcare coverage. Todd is known for his patient, informative approach—breaking down complex information into clear, actionable guidance tailored to each client’s health needs and financial goals. Whether it's Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage, Part D prescription plans, or supplemental coverage, Todd ensures his clients are supported every step of the way. His deep knowledge, attention to detail, and genuine care make him a vital part of the Powell Insurance Agency team.
Todd’s family has roots in America prior to the Civil War and settled in Victor around 1875. His oldest son, Nolan, is currently serving in the US Army Infantry. Carson is attending SUNY Cortland and has an exceptional soccer career. When Todd is not helping others you will find him outside hiking, playing sports, creating unusual outside projects, or finding any reason to enjoy the outdoors.
Why Choose Us?
We provide a wide range of insurance products including:
- Local & Independent – We know the area. We live here. We are not a call center.
- Real People, Real Support – You will speak with someone who knows your name.
- Trusted Carriers – We only partner with reputable insurance companies.
- Ongoing Advice – We stay in touch as your life or business changes.
- Reliable Claims Support – When life happens, we are by your side to help you navigate the claims process smoothly.
Our Commitment to You
We know that insurance can feel overwhelming. Our mission is to simplify the process, answer your questions before you even ask, and build long-term relationships based on trust, not transactions.
Here’s what you can expect when you work with us:
- Clear, honest communication
- Coverage tailored to your lifestyle and goals
- Prompt, reliable support when you need it most
- A partner who knows your name—and your story
