The Alderson & Griffin Center for Family Business and Entrepreneurship delivers transformative education that prepares students to lead and innovate within family enterprises, as well as prepare for entrepreneurial continuity. Through cornerstone offerings like MGT 4377 Family Enterprise, the Undergraduate Certificate in Family Business, and targeted microcredentials, students and the community can gain foundational knowledge and specialized skills. These academic pathways are designed to empower the next generation of family business successors, equipping them to navigate succession, governance, and entrepreneurial growth with confidence.

Along with other current and potential research initiatives, the research at the Center is anchored by the Intercultural Enterprise Research (ICER) initiative headed by Dr. Claudio Muller, which investigates how cultural contexts shape the strategies and values of family-owned businesses globally. This work not only contributes to academic scholarship but also provides practical insights for family firms operating in diverse environments. By fostering interdisciplinary and international research collaborations, the Center advances thought leadership in the evolving field of family enterprise.

Our signature events foster connection, inspiration, and real-world learning. The Marketplace allows on-campus stakeholders to showcase their entrepreneurial skills, while The Networking Pass connects students with family business leaders and alumni for mentorship and engagement. The McCoy Family Speaker Series brings distinguished voices to campus, sharing generational wisdom and entrepreneurial experiences that resonate with aspiring family business leaders.

The Center leads a dynamic ecosystem of campus partnerships that amplify the reach and relevance of family business education. Through the Family Business Student Organization, students build networking and leadership skills. The Center is also grateful to recognize and honor campus-wide faculty, through the Center Affiliate Faculty program, who contribute to the success of the Center’s initiatives.

Our programs extend beyond the classroom to make a lasting impact on families and communities. The Families In Ranching Succession Toolkit (FIRST) addresses the unique challenges of rural succession planning, while the Returning Families Program encourages returning citizens to pursue innovation and leadership as part of re-entry and re-integration. The Succession Room offers a hands-on, consultative experience where stakeholders explore strategies for mediating generational continuity and legacy preservation.

The Center curates and produces a range of content that documents our activities and communicates our vision. From our Spring Archives to the Fall 2025 Brochure, we highlight student achievements, faculty initiatives, and community collaborations. These materials serve as both a reflection of our impact and an invitation for future engagement with our growing family business community.