About the Stevens Center for Family Business

The Stevens Center for Family Business at Saginaw Valley State University has provided resources and support for the unique needs of family-owned businesses since 1999. Part of the Scott L. Carmona College of Business, the Stevens Center for Family Business has several components, including a major event series, membership program, and academic coursework in the family business.

The major event series offers presentations by nationally recognized experts in the field of the family business, on subjects that address the particular issues which impact family-owned firms. Topics have included succession planning, next-generation leadership development, outside boards of directors, family meetings, conflict and communications, and many others.

Additionally, locally recognized leaders who are instrumental in their own family businesses share their expertise and personal experience in panel presentations. Previous panelists have included Wally and Wayne N. Bronner of Bronner’s CHRISTmas Wonderland; D. Brian Law of Magline; Bill Zehnder of Frankenmuth Bavarian Inn; Lou Furlo, Sr. from Morley Bros.; Al Zehnder, Zehnder’s of Frankenmuth; and James C. Fabiano, Fabiano Bros.

Those family businesses who want a more in-depth examination of family business issues and enhanced opportunities for networking may become dues-paying members of The Stevens Center for Family Business. Benefits of membership include major events; peer groups for people of the Leading Generation, the Next Generation, and Key Non-family Executives; Sponsor Workshops; networking opportunities, and many more.

If you want more information about us call the Stevens Center for Family Business office at (989) 964-2842.