Course Connects Student Stakeholders in Family Firms

Twenty St. John Fisher University students who are stakeholders in family firms took the course Family Business Management during the spring semester. The course provided the opportunity to attend the Family Business Program’s Successful Successions dinner, tour family firms including Gorbel Inc. and Rochester Colonial, and hear from several alumni who are family business leaders.

“Having grown up working at my father’s business, I was very intrigued by the idea of learning about family business and, more specifically, meeting people who have had similar experiences as me,” said Nicolette Pallar ’24, one of the students in the course.

Pallar said that one of the best aspects of the course was the opportunity to expand her network and learn about the different areas of business. 

“Hearing from successful individuals who were once in our position is incredibly important, especially in the realm of family business.,” she explained. “Their insights and experiences provide invaluable lessons and inspiration, demonstrating the diverse paths to success. “

Pallar said that the conversations with family business leaders also fostered a sense of belonging and community, which is crucial for navigating the unique challenges faced by family businesses.  

“I learned so much about the importance of structure, communication, succession, and community within the scope of family business during this course,” Pallar continued. “These lessons will stay with me beyond my career and will help me navigate many obstacles and successes in all aspects of my life moving forward.”