16 family business leaders complete CEL program

By Kevin Manne

BUFFALO, N.Y. — A new class of entrepreneurs are better prepared to successfully manage the unique challenges of running a family business after completing the “Sustaining a Successful Family Business” course in the University at Buffalo School of Management’s Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership (CEL).

“Sustaining a Successful Family Business” is an eight-session course that empowers family members to come together to identify and apply solutions to help their business thrive. The course delivers practical solutions on topics relevant to family businesses, including communication, interpersonal relationships, conflict resolution, strategic planning and succession and next-generation leadership planning.

Sixteen entrepreneurs from four Western New York businesses completed the course this year and were honored at a joint graduation ceremony for three CEL programs in June at UB’s Center for the Arts.

The graduates and their businesses are:

• Christian, Holly and Keith Anderson, and Torsten Wildermuth, Anderson’s Frozen Custard
• Amanda, Andres, Melinda, Oscar and Oscar Jr. Vizcarra, Becker Farms and Vizcarra Vineyards
• Crystal, Dave, Diana and Peter Meyer, Meyer Septic Services
• Nancy Caughel, Gail DeGrood and Janet Ruesch, Rucker Lumber

The graduates now become members of the CEL Family Business Association, an initiative that addresses the unique challenges associated with operating a family business, while also supporting the traditional needs of any entrepreneur. As members, they’re invited to networking events and workshops with expert speakers, discounted registration for other professional development opportunities and access to professionally facilitated peer support groups.

The CEL is currently enrolling new members in the Family Business Association. For more information, contact the CEL at 716-885-5715 or mgt-cel@buffalo.edu.

Established in 1987, the CEL provides participants with individualized and interactive education in entrepreneurship. More than 1,300 CEL alumni employ more than 22,000 Western New Yorkers, and their businesses contribute more than $2 billion to the local economy annually. For more information, visit mgt.buffalo.edu/cel.