FORT WORTH, Texas -State National Companies, a privately held group of insurance companies specializing in credit unions, has named Shirley McFarlane, credit life and disability specialist. Created in response to client requests for more specialty insurance products, McFarlane's position will support the company's latest market expansion efforts for its credit life and credit disability insurance. McFarlane's most recent experience includes conducting training seminars on credit insurance products and lending practices. She will assist in development of marketing materials as well as conduct training seminars to assist clients' staff in understanding and promoting these products. State National Companies includes affiliates, State National Insurance Company, State and County Mutual Fire Insurance Company and State National Specialty Insurance Company. The company currently writes over one-half billion dollars in annual written premiums.