Events
Below is a list of upcoming roundtables, events and webinars. Please contact us for more information or if you need your username and password to register. Non-members may register as a guest, for the events that are open to the public.
Roundtables
Manufacturing - This roundtable is a platform for industry leaders to exchange ideas and strategies for improving manufacturing processes and business operations. Particpants include owners or leaders in the manufacturing sector. This roundtable meets monthly on the second Thursday, from 8:00 to 9:30 AM at the Center for Alumni and Donor Relations, 4510 Dorr Street.
Women, Wisdom & Wine - An empowering gathering that combines insightful discussions on pressing topics with a casual, congenial atmosphere. Participants include women from member companies or sponsors of the center. This group meets quarterly at 4:00 PM at various local restaurants.
Leading Generation - Designed for family business leaders looking to shape their legacy and prepare the next generation for success. Participants include current leaders in family-owned businesses. This roundtable meets quarterly at 10:00 AM, followed by an optional lunch, at the Center for Alumni and Donor Relations, 4510 Dorr Street.
Human Resources - A focused session for HR leaders to share innovations and solve common human resource challenges in the workplace. Participants include HR professionals from member organizations or sponsors. This roundtable meets monthly on the third Wednesday, from 8:30 to 10:00 AM at the Center for Alumni and Donor Relations, 4510 Dorr Street.
Northwest Ohio M&A Club – A collaborative forum for business owners and professionals to explore topics related to mergers and acquisitions, including buying, selling, and merging businesses. Sponsored by the UToledo Family Business Center, participants include leaders, advisors, and stakeholders involved in M&A activities. This group meets quarterly at 11:45 AM at the Center for Alumni and Donor Relations, 4510 Dorr Street.
Upcoming Events
Click on the event title to register:
Introduction to Business and Golf
Friday, April 25, 2025
11:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
First Tee
4700 Hill Ave Toledo, OH 43615
The University of Toledo John B. and Lillian E. Neff College of Business and Innovation Alumni Affiliate invites all current Family Business Center members to “Introduction to Business and Golf” on Friday, April 25 at 11 a.m. in the new First Tee building.
This “lunch and learn” style event, will be geared toward current students, alumni and FBC members with minimal knowledge of the game of golf and provide them with an introduction to the game as well as how learning this game can be an asset to one’s career.
The event will consist of a boxed lunch and panel presentation from 11 a.m. – 12:45 p.m. followed by an optional hour of golf basics instruction and practice in the First Tee practice facility, which includes a driving range, chipping areas, and putting greens. Golf clubs will be provided, but feel free to bring your own!
Featured speakers:
- Adam Reny – executive director of First Tee of Lake Erie
- Dean Anne Balazs, Ph.D. – dean of the John B. and Lillian E. Neff College of Business and Innovation
- Carol Sullinger, MBA – senior lecturer for John B. and Lillian E. Neff College of Business and Innovation
- Mathieu Beaudoin - Associate Director at MB Capital, Family Business Center member
Space is limited so registration is required. Registration is free for UT Family Business Center Members.
An Ounce of Prevention: Investing in Harassment and Leadership Training for Supervisors
and Managers
presented by Eastman & Smith
Thursday, May 1, 2025
11:00 a.m. - Noon
Center for Alumni and Donor Engagement
Wolfe Board Room - 2nd Floor
4510 Dorr Street, Toledo, Ohio 43615
Join the UToledo Family Business Center and Center Sponsor Eastman & Smith for an informative and timely presentation on the importance of proactive training for supervisors and managers.
In An Ounce of Prevention, Carrie L. Urrutia, Labor and Employment Law Specialist at Eastman & Smith, will explore how harassment prevention and leadership development training can protect your organization, strengthen culture, and empower your leadership team.
Key Takeaways
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- The tangible and intangible benefits of harassment and leadership training
- 10 key components of an effective training program
- How to shift from reactive responses to proactive workplace strategies
Financial Wellness Awareness
presented by Fifth Third Bank
Tuesday, May 13, 2025
11:00 a.m. – Noon
Center for Alumni and Donor Engagement
Wolfe Board Room - 2nd Floor
4510 Dorr Street, Toledo, Ohio 43615
Join the UToledo Family Business Center and Center Sponsor Fifth Third Bank for an important conversation on Financial Wellness Awareness—a growing priority for organizations seeking to support their employees and build stronger workplace cultures.
This session will explore the state of financial wellness in society today and common trends seen within companies. Learn why investing in financial wellness resources benefits both employees and employers, and gain insights into the practical tools and strategies that make a difference.
Featured Presenters
Deeann Schaefer, Financial Center Manager, Byrne/Glendale Location
Deeann has been with Fifth Third Bank for over 23 years. She began her career as a
customer service representative and has held every position within the banking center.
She currently leads the Byrne/Glendale location and brings a wealth of experience
in personal and family financial planning.
Joel Pym, Financial Center Manager, Westgate Location
Joel is a 2013 University of Toledo graduate with a BBA in Finance (with Departmental
Honors) and a minor in Management. With 7 years of experience in the banking industry,
he now manages Fifth Third’s Westgate Financial Center and offers practical financial
insight to individuals and organizations.
May Women, Wisdom and Wine
SQUIRREL!! How to Be Intentional with Your Day
Wednesday, May 21, 2025
4:00 - 6:00 p.m.
Manhattan's Pub 'Cheer
1516 Adams St, Toledo, OH 43604
This month’s Women, Wisdom & Wine is all about reclaiming your time—and your focus—in a world full of noise and constant distraction.
We’ll dive into how to be more intentional with your day, even when the demands of work, family, and life in general pull you in every direction. From the little “squirrel!” moments that interrupt our flow to the bigger challenges that keep us from staying aligned with our goals, this conversation will offer practical tools and thoughtful reflection on how to protect your time and energy.
We’ll share ideas for:
-
- Minimizing distractions
- Prioritizing what matters most
- Staying on track—personally and professionally
Whether you’re balancing a busy career, managing a household, supporting others, or simply trying to make space for yourself, this is a space to pause, connect with other women who get it, and leave feeling inspired and empowered.
And of course, we’ll enjoy some great wine and conversation along the way.
Protecting the Legacy of Family Businesses and Successful Families in Today’s Legislative
Environment
presented by Family Enterprise USA
Monday, June 16, 2025
1:00 -2:00 pm
via Zoom
Join the UToledo Family Business Center and Center Sponsor Family Enterprise USA (FEUSA) for a timely and important webinar focused on the current legislative environment and what it means for family businesses and successful families.
In this session, Pat Soldano, John Gugliada, and Caren Street will share insights from Washington and walk through the results of the 2025 FEUSA Family Business Survey, highlighting the critical role family businesses play in the U.S. economy and how they may be impacted by upcoming tax and economic legislation.
Key Discussion Topics
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2025 FEUSA Family Business Survey results and statistics on the impact of family businesses
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Legislative updates including the potential expiration of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA)
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Policy and taxation issues affecting business owners, family offices, and successful families
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Strategies to prepare and protect your enterprise in a changing economic environment
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About the Speakers
Pat Soldano is President of Family Enterprise USA and the Policy and Taxation Group. With over 30 years of experience in family office services, she now leads advocacy efforts to promote favorable tax and economic policies for generational family businesses.
John Gugliada, Director of Engagement for both organizations, brings executive experience across industries and continents. He works closely with business leaders and economic development entities nationwide.
Caren Street, Principal at Squire Patton Boggs, is a seasoned DC policy strategist with 17 years of experience on Capitol Hill. She advises Fortune 100 companies, trade associations, and advocacy groups on public policy strategy and government relations.
Exploring ESOPs: A Strategic Path for Business Transitions
presented by Shumaker
Tuesday, August 26, 2025
11:00 a.m. - Noon
Center for Alumni and Donor Engagement
Wolfe Board Room - 2nd Floor
4510 Dorr Street, Toledo, Ohio 43615
Join the UToledo Family Business Center and Center Sponsor Shumaker for a presentation on Exploring ESOPs: A Strategic Path for Business Transitions. This is a must-attend event for business owners and advisors seeking to explore Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs) as an alternative exit, transition, or liquidity path to a traditional third-party sale. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to connect with industry experts and learn how to maximize the value of your business during a transition.
In today’s competitive market, strategic planning is essential for successful business transitions. Join Shumaker's Bennett Speyer, and Austin Irving and Lazear Capital Partners' Todd Goldman as they share insights into the benefits of ESOPs and best practices to prepare your business for a transaction.
Key Takeaways
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- Understand the fundamentals of Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs) and how they compare to other transition options.
- Discover critical steps to prepare your business for a transaction, including:
- Accounting assurance and financial readiness.
- Margin optimization and operational improvements.
- Human capital strategies to ensure continuity and growth.
- Legal considerations to protect your interests.
- Explore case studies and practical strategies for maximizing value.
Fifth Annual UToledo Family Business Center Golf Outing
Monday, September 15, 2025
Registration and breakfast 8:00 a.m.
Shotgun start at 10:00 a.m.
Stone Oak Country Club
100 Stone Oak Blvd, Holland, OH 43528
More details and registration coming soon.
Past Events
Visit our YouTube page for recordings of many of our past events.
