Family Business Program Announces Fall Slate of Events

This fall, the St. John Fisher University Family Business Program will offer workshops and networking opportunities that seek to strengthen the fabric of family-owned ventures in the Greater Rochester region.

Launched in 2018, the Family Business Program supports the unique needs of family businesses in the region by offering innovative, engaging programs related to leadership transitions, succession planning, family governance, and next generation training, among other topics.

The program’s newest slate of programming includes conversations with family business leaders about experiences in selling pieces of a family business, learning how to identify and mitigate potential risks and building resiliency; networking; and transition planning.

“Family businesses are a vital part of the Rochester economy.  At St. John Fisher University, we are proud to offer educational programming and networking opportunities that empower family business leaders to grow, innovate, and expand their reach and impact across our region and beyond,” said Dr. Dan Connolly, dean of the School of Business, which houses the program.

Events include:

Strategic Stewardship of Your Family Business: A Conversation with Ray Isaac
4:30 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 25
Isaac Training & Education Center (105 Mclaughlin Rd, Rochester, NY 14615)
Tickets are available online and are $50 per person; purchase two or more together and pay only $30 per person.

Join the Family Business Program for an up-close session with Ray Isaac ’88, executive vice president, industry relations for Northwinds Services Group, as he shares his leadership philosophy and approach to the strategic management and expansion of a family business. He will also discuss his experiences partnering with a private equity firm in the formation of Northwinds Services Group, which provides resources, support, and expertise to a portfolio of HVAC brands across the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, and Midwest. Isaac will provide a tour of the Rochester-based training facility following his remarks.

Resiliency in Family Business: Learning How to Identify Risk and Thrive after Loss*
4:30 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 9
Wintergarden (1 Bausch and Lomb Place, Rochester, NY 14604)

This panel brings together prominent business leaders to explore how family enterprises can build resilience by identifying and mitigating risks early and developing strategies to thrive after adversity. Through shared experiences and expert insights, attendees will learn practical approaches that help family businesses prepare for the unexpected and emerge stronger.

Blossoms and Beverages*
5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 23
Kittelberger Florist and Gifts (263 North Avenue, Webster, NY 14580)

Back By Popular Demand: Join the Women in Family Business Committee for its second Blossoms and Beverages networking event. Fourth generation family member Holly Rund will provide an overview of Kittelberger and guide guests through a build-your-own floral arrangement workshop. Enjoy light appetizers and drinks while exploring Kittelberger’s boutique and chatting with fellow women in family business.

How to Use Transition to Make Positive Impacts on Your Employees, Customers, and Community*
4:30 to 6:30 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 13
Nixon Peabody (211 High Point Drive, Suite 110, Victor, NY 14564)

A well-crafted transition plan can do more than ensure business continuity—it can strengthen the company’s culture, enhance the company and family’s reputation, and create lasting value for all stakeholders. This program will feature a series of insightful panels presenting real-world experiences and expert guidance on navigating this complex process.

*Ticket prices and registration information forthcoming

The events are made possible through the support of Cardinal Sponsor Key Private Bank and event sponsor Nixon Peabody. For more information, visit the Family Business website or call the Office of the Dean of the School of Business at (585) 385-8446.