The Alderson & Griffin Center brought students and alumni together this fall for The Networking Pass – Generational Perspectives, an event designed to demystify multigenerational dynamics in today’s workplace and give student entrepreneurs insight into family business leadership from those who know it best – current family business owners and operators.
Anish Quenim, director for the Alderson & Griffin Center and management instructor, partnered with the Family Business Student Organization (FBSO) and students in his Family Enterprise class to bring to the table a discussion on generational transitions in family business. The event drew more than 80 attendees, reflecting a mix of current and future business leaders ranging from Rawls College students, faculty, and alumni, including center founders David Alderson and Mark Griffin, and local family business leaders representing multiple generations. The families and business included:
- Coulliette Family
- Kate Forsythe Family
- Jimmy Byler Family
- Mike Thompson Family
- Connie Love and Marvin Jessie Family (John Henry Oil)
- Johnny Vega Family (Mico Services)
- Garcia Family (Berryhill Sewer Service Inc)
- Betzen Family (Betzen Ranch)
- Skeet and Clifford Family
- Michael Bontke Family
- Venegas Family (Marquez Bakery)
- Brisa Cabello Family (Wild Honey Hat Co.)
Meet the Guest Speakers: The Pattillo Family
After a class-led interactive activity exploring how different generations approach leadership and decision-making in business, the event featured the Pattillo family from Alamogordo, NM, who shared how teamwork, communication, and respect have helped their family businesses grow across generations.
Bob Pattillo, founder of the Pattillo Group, shared how he began with a small physical therapy practice that expanded into real estate, agriculture, and community service ventures.
“Mistakes are part of the journey, but family togetherness is key,” Pattillo said. “They teach you what really matters – resilience and teamwork.”
Joining him, his son, Baxter Pattillo, a licensed surveyor and college instructor, and his daughter, Molly Pattillo Olson, a Texas Tech alumna, shared what they believe are key to helping family businesses succeed and stay strong - staying persistent and connected to the family and the community and maintaining trust and communication when blending.
Key Takeaways
- Communicating succession intent is foundational for generational success.
- Every generation adds new strengths to the family’s success; each passing generation creates the foundations for legacy continuity.
About the Alderson & Griffin Center
The Alderson & Griffin Center helps students and families explore the challenges and opportunities of running a family business. Through events like The Networking Pass, the center supports learning, connection, and leadership development for the next generation of family business owners.