SDSU Business Forum Explores Issues of Family-Run Businesses

Contact: Randy Carmical, Director of Communications
(619) 594-0206 Randy.Carmical@sdsu.edu

SAN DIEGO, Wednesday, September 27, 2006 – San Diego State University’s Entrepreneurial Management Center (EMC) will host an open Business Forum on Tuesday, October 10 from 4:00-6:00 p.m. featuring Jim Brown, CEO of K. Brown Auto Center, as the keynote speaker.  

Brown became CEO at the age of 24 when his father died suddenly. He will discuss how he overcame the odds that were against him in keeping the franchise together, including how he handled a letter of termination delivered the day after his father's funeral.

The forum also will include a panel discussion on how to serve the growth and needs of closely-held and family businesses through succession planning, leadership development, code of ethics, corporate governance, wealth management, transitions and executive coaching.  George Chamberlin of KOGO Radio will serve as moderator and panelists include representatives from Duane Morris, Ernst & Young, Comerica Bank, and Northwestern Mutual Financial Network.

The event is open to the public and will be held at the Marriott Mission Valley.  Registration will begin at 3:30 p.m. and hors d’oeuvres will be served. Admission is $55.  For more information or to register, email emcforum@projects.sdsu.edu.

About the Entrepreneurial Management Center Business Forum
The EMC Business Forum was conceived to meet the unique needs of local family and closely-held firms. They serve to drive the growth and development of member businesses by providing entrepreneurial education, training programs, resources and peer support to closely-held & family businesses in the San Diego region.

About the College of Business Administration - Leadership for the Global Marketplace.
With over 5,500 students, the SDSU College of Business is one of the largest business schools in the U.S. Its programs in international business and graduate entrepreneurship are ranked among the top programs in the country by U.S. News and World Report. For more information, visit www.sdsu.edu/business.  

About San Diego State University
San Diego State University is the oldest and largest higher education institution in the San Diego region. Since it was founded in 1897, the university has grown to offer bachelor’s degrees in 81 areas, master’s degree in 72 areas and doctorates in 16 areas. SDSU’s more than 33,000 students participate in academic curriculum distinguished by direct contact with faculty and an increasing international emphasis that prepares them for a global future. For more information, visit www.sdsu.edu.