Craig School of Business
Institute for Family Business
The Institute for Family Business is a comprehensive resource center for education, family business knowledge, and community involvement that serves the needs of the family-owned and closely-held partnerships in the Central California area with the intent of improving the success of families and their businesses. We offer seminars that cover broad family business issues, providing advice and guidance from our experts on how to navigate the different assistance programs. More importantly, we aim to inspire our diverse student body to become the next generation of family business leaders. Hence, facilitating the recruitment of students and graduates as employees, interns and mentees.
Legacy Members
- Fred & Mitzie Ruiz
- Johanson Transportation Services
- James G. Parker Insurance Associates
- J. D. Heiskell & Company
Become a Member
As a member in good standing of the Institute for Family Business, you will receive
the following:
- Gain Access to a range of educational courses, training, and program seminars presented at our meetings by educators and family business practitioners
- Join a regional network of family business owners that provides opportunities for strategic alliances and the exchange of ideas and solutions in a roundtable discussion format
- Members at any level may address the group or make presentations at events
Membership Application Form
Thank you for your interest in becoming a member of the Institute for Family Business.
Please follow this link to become a member!
- Central Valley Community Bank
- Delray Tire & Retreading, Inc.
- Manco Abbott, Inc.
- Wawona Frozen Foods
- Wiebe Hinton Hambalek, LLP
Board Members
Our Advisory Board is comprised of family businesses and advisors from our community
that help guide and carry out the mission of the Institute for Family Business. As
community ambassadors for the IFB, Advisory Board Members are instrumental in preserving
an environment of exchange that promotes the growth and success of other family businesses.
| Officer | Role | Organization (Generation of Family Business) |
|---|---|---|
| Sam Geil | Chair | Geil Consulting |
| Tara Sweeney | Secretary | Food & Facilities |
| Member | Organization |
|---|---|
| Rob Cozzi, Jr. | Principal Financial Group |
| Terri E. Hilliard-Olson | |
| Robert Kutka | |
| Liz McIlvaine | |
| Dr. Vernice Nellon | |
| Steve Orlando | |
| David Preciado | |
| Ganisha Sethi | |
| Sherry Smiley | |
| Fred Ruiz Ex-Officio |
|
| Julie Olson-Buchanan, Dean Ex-Officio |
|
| Angel Rueda, President Ex-Officio |
Family Business Student Association |
| Kenyeih Williams, Director of development Craig School of Business Ex-Officio |
|
| Fernando Parra, Director Ex-Officio |
Institute for Family Business |
| Event Name | Event Information |
|---|---|
|
Family Business Organizational Mindfulness: A Pathway to Enhanced Performance and Well-being April 19, 2024 |
In this seminar on Organizational Mindfulness, featuring Dr. Christopher Sterling, Associate Professor at Fresno State, participants learn the main ideas of organizational mindfulness, discover how to include mindfulness in their daily routines, improve relationships with other family members, and build a resilient culture at their family business. Dr. Sterling explains the science behind mindfulness, discussing how regular practice can lead to significant improvements in brain function. Research on mindfulness in organizations shows significant improvement in performance and engagement, employee well-being, and improved emotional intelligence. Dr. Sterling demonstrates multiple mindfulness-based practices that participants can incorporate into their daily routines to better overcome biases and recover more quickly from disruptions, distractions, and negative emotions. The seminar, led by Dr. Christopher Sterling, is informative and engaging, with Dr. Sterling providing clear explanations and practical demonstrations of mindfulness practices. Attendees actively participate in discussions and exercises, learning how to integrating mindfulness into their daily routines and improve their family businesses. Dr. Sterling's expertise and interactive approach leave attendees feeling empowered and equipped to cultivate a resilient and mindful culture within their organizations. |
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Supercharge Your Family Business: Strategic Talent Attraction and Retention March 14, 2024 |
In this Institute for Family Business seminar on effective talent acquisition and retention strategies with Dr. Christian A. Wandeler, participants gain a comprehensive understanding of optimizing their organization's appeal to top talent, from identifying unique selling points to fostering a compelling company culture. Dr. Wandeler leads attendees through a thorough analysis of their company's processes and culture, unveiling potential obstacles to talent acquisition. Participants explore diverse strategies to attract and retain high-caliber professionals, while also learning how to mitigate employee turnover. They equip themselves with actionable steps and leadership insights to build a stable and productive workforce. Video Presentation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ixdcu7L4LQk |
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Regulatory and Tax Guidance for Small Family Business December 5, 2023
|
In this in-person Workshop on 'Regulatory and Tax Guidance for Family Business,' our guest speaker, Christina Wyneken, CPA, shares her expertise on effectively managing regulatory compliance for small family businesses and optimizing tax strategies. Participants participate in this seminar designed to help them grasp key concepts such as business licensing, government filing requirements, and tax payments. They engage in a learning experience that provides actionable insights for their family business enterprise. This seminar covered a range of essential considerations, including the choice of entity, such as sole proprietorship, partnerships, LLCs, and corporations, and the tax implications associated with each. Participants also learned about payroll taxes, sales tax regulations, estimated income taxes, and the importance of maintaining accurate business records. |
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QuickBooks Online for Small Family Business I. November 3, 2023 II. November 17, 2023 On campus - 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. |
This 2-day workshop with Dr. Fernando Parra, Director of the Institute for Family Business and Associate Professor of Accountancy at the Craig School of Business, and Jonathan Court, Regional Business Specialist for the Central Valley’s Women Entrepreneurs’ Center at Fresno State, dives into the world of QuickBooks Online. Participants are learning how to efficiently manage their finances, track expenses, and streamline their business operations in these Spanish and English seminars. They gain mastery in sales tax handling, ensuring compliance with ease, and learn practical tips for easy mileage tracking and efficient digital receipt management. Participants learn how to use the software in the first session (Nov. 3) and work on their own books in the second session (Nov. 17). |
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Legal Strategies for Family Business Experiencing Growth September 29, 2023 On campus - 12:00 to 2:00 pm |
In this family business seminar, "Legal Strategies for Family Business Experiencing Growth," UC Berkeley New Business Community Law Clinic’s Clinical Supervising Attorney, Mariana Acevedo Nuevo, L.L.M, provides vital legal insights tailored to the needs of small- to medium-sized family businesses. Participants engage in interactive discussions, learning hoe to navigate legal challenges and optimize growth opportunities within their enterprises. With expert guidance and practical advice, attendees leave equipped to confidently address legal matters and propel their family businesses toward sustainable success. |
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San Joaquin Valley Investment Fund: How to Become an Angel Investor July 26, 2023 |
The Institute for Family Business hosts a virtual information session to learn about angel investment opportunities with the Fresno Area Hispanic Foundation, in support of our Central Valley small business community. About the Venture Capital Fund: The main purpose of the FAHF Venture Capital Fund is to provide pre-seed and early-stage funding for entrepreneurs with an innovative product or service in the eight counties of the San Joaquin Valley with a high focus on minorities, women, and underserved entrepreneurs. They strive to create an incubator to provide entrepreneurial tools, resources, and funding to help people take their business to the next funding stage. This is the first annual small business SJVIF Conference Pitch Competition hosted by the FAHF! Video Presentation: https://youtu.be/myfLFcl80MY?si=8I7BYlPfJIJQzHYR |
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Tax and Legal Considerations for Family Business May 9, 2023 On campus - 3:00 to 5:00 pm
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In this family business seminar, participants acquire a general framework on common taxation and legal matters for their family business. We delve into topics like the choice of entity formation, operating agreements, estate planning, and exit strategies. Our guest speaker, Ivan Caldwell, Chief Tax Officer for Assemi Group Inc., shared his expertise on legal and tax topics that influence strategies for family businesses. During this interactive session, participants engage in discussions and receive expert guidance in the field of taxation and law. Attendees gain valuable insights and practical strategies to navigate the complex landscape of legal and tax considerations, ensuring the long-term success and sustainability of their family business. Attendees learn how to empower themselves with essential knowledge and tools to protect and grow their enterprise. Video Presentation: https://youtu.be/krgG71bdW0w?si=VCP-XaedyTDx_nWz |
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Compensation Strategies for Family Businesses March 21, 2023 On campus - 3:00 to 5:00 pm |
In this family business seminar featuring Lois Lang, Psy.D., a partner with Evolve Partner Group LLC., participants learn more about how to establish savvy compensation structures that accommodate the growth of their family business. Family harmony (or lack thereof) adds additional emotions to the already passionate topic of compensation. In this event, we delve into the challenges faced by family businesses in terms of compensating family members and non-family employees. This seminar explores strategies and best practices for navigating the complexities of compensation within family-owned enterprises. Attendees engage with industry experts and fellow business owners to gain valuable insights and practical solutions tailored to their unique situations. Participants learn how to optimize their compensation strategies and foster harmony within their family business. |
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2022 and Beyond: A Family Business Conversation I. On Campus - 4/1 II. On Campus 4/8 III. Via Zoom 4/22 IV. Via Zoom 4/29
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In our focus group, we discuss the most important issues affecting family businesses and the role the Craig School of Business can play in addressing these needs. |
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Healthy Family, Healthy Business I. Seminar 10/21 II. Seminar 12/02 III. Seminar 01/13 |
In this Family Business Legacy Series, 'Healthy Family, Healthy Business,' participants learn more about family communication, living governance, and successful successions with UK-based family business advisers Brian Thompson, Ducere Advisory, and Elizabeth Bagger, Avanti Family Business Advisory. Introduction Video: https://youtu.be/Cg3bIWVGlbU |
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Human-Centered Management August 26, 2021 |
In this Family Business Legacy webinar, with Dr. Christian A. Wandeler, participants learn how to guide organizations on their own path to self-management. They help their human-centered management make an impact on their results by generating high performance and success. Video Presentation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2YPhTAoAJEo |
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Family Business Strategic Planning 3-Session Summer Bootcamp July 15, 22 & 30, 2021 |
In this Family Strategic Planning 3-Session Summer Bootcamp with Gail Covington, Senior Vice President and Family Wealth Director for the Covington Wealth Management Group at Morgan Stanley, participants learn how to strategize management of a Family Business, develop successful planning skills, and understand gifting strategies. Video Presentation: I. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UtUgb0EVSLg |
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Leading Remote Teams in a Family Business May 27, 2021 |
As no one can predict the phenomenon that changes our world overnight, it is a vital time for Family Business leaders to learn that it is possible for their teams to work from home without compromising productivity or hurting sales. In this Family Business Legacy webinar, attendees learned how to develop a core capability that will be the future of a distributed world with Dr. Christian A. Wandeler, Industrial and Organizational Psychologist, Associate Professor at Fresno State, and Founder of the Semco Style Institute USA. Video Presentation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2zWeIan3pHo |
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Family Business Succession Through Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOP's) April 22, 2021 |
Learn how ESOPs can be an effective way to reward your extended employee family while executing your family business succession. Video Presentation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5I0OgbTADWo |
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Proposition 19: Impact on Family Estate Planning January 14, 2021 |
At this Institute for Family Business Legacy webinar, Estate, Elder, and Special Needs Attorney Terri Hilliard Olson discusses the impact of Proposition 19 on your family's estate planning. Video Presentation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O-JF8cpVbrM |
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How to Plan for 2021: What we Know so Far December 10, 2020 |
The CARES Act provided economic incentives and relief for small businesses amid the COVID-19 Pandemic. The rules regarding loan forgiveness and the impact on your financial reporting for this year have been modified throughout the year as a consequence of legislative action and administrative guidance. Get the latest updates in the 2020 Family Business Tax Update where tax professionals from Wiebe Hinton Hambalek, LLP shared tax strategies that will help minimize your tax liability and keep you in compliance with these rules. Video Presentation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xdss5k2Vro8 |
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A Conversation with Fred Ruiz |
Discussion with Fred Ruiz, founder of Ruiz foods. |
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A Conversation with Sam Geil December 4, 2020 |
Discussion with Sam Geil, the principal of Geil Consulting, about various intricacies of starting, growing and excelling as a family business, career opportunities, and advice for the next generation. |
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Team Performance in Family Business September 24, 2020 |
What do successful family businesses have in common? A high-performing team that gets the job done. At this Institute for Family Business webinar, you will learn more about the High-Performing Team Growth Cycle with Tim Nightingale (Nightingale Resolutions). In collaboration with CMTC and the San Joaquin Valley Manufacturing Alliance. Video Presentation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R3mjYahzOfg |
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CMCT Presents Funding Opportunities for Family Business August 27, 2020 |
The Institute for Family Business hosts Craig Scharton, CMTC Client Advisor to discuss funding possibilities available to manufacturing family businesses. Approved Delivery experts join in to discuss some of the typical services you are able to secure. Video Presentation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uJvJx3UP1Ng |
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Deconstructing Conflict in Family Business June 18, 2020 |
Disputes and conflicts can ruin a business. Don’t let this happen to you. Lois Lang, Psy.D., and Rebecca Spicer of Evolve Group discussed why the potential for conflict in a family enterprise is so high, the symptoms and stages of family conflict, and how to approach resolution. Video Presentation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0s41XSRpO44 |
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COVID-19: Tax and Financial Opportunity to Navigate Family Business through Uncharted Waters April 21, 2020 |
In this IFB online session on April 21st, Moss Adams discusses new COVID-19 legislation that supports family businesses. Learn about tax and financial opportunities available to support you during this time. Video Presentation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d8erfwcxARE |
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Available Resources and Downsizing Options to Sustain your Family Business Amid COVID-19 April 2, 2020 |
The Institute for Family Business in collaboration with the Fresno Regional Workforce Development Board will virtually host Sierra HR Partners Inc, the Small Business Administration, and the Employment Development Department to help family businesses learn more about the immediate resources available during this COVID-19 emergency. The panel will also provide compliance guidelines and tips to follow in case your business must make the difficult choice to reduce its workforce. Video Presentation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8_8d0Nc0iko |
Join our Craig School of Business students and community members in the promotion of businesses and institutions that serve as the economic engine of our Central Valley by publishing social media posts with the hashtag #OpenforBusiness using Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
For the posts include the hashtags #OpenforBusiness and #Fresno (or your city) and tag us on Twitter (@FresnoStateIFB or @FresnoStateBiz), on Instagram (@FresnoStateIFB or @FresnoStateBiz), and LinkedIn (@FresnoStateInstituteforFamilyBusiness)
Thank you for helping us support local businesses and encourage economic activity.