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Smith Family Business Initiative

Read more about how our initiative is educating, connecting, and innovating in the realm of family business.

headshot of JJ Myron with the Career Corner graphic identifier overlaid on the photo next to him.
Johnson School

From Sales, Marketing, and Ops to Consulting with James “JJ” Myron, MBA ’23

Career Corner: Consultant JJ Myron pivoted from a sales, marketing, and operations role to advising clients on how to achieve their strategic goals.

The Cornell team, composed of Prima Giovanni, MMH ’25, Harry Han, MMH ’25, and Ruby Lin, Kyoto MBA and MMH ’25, pose with their award plaques.

Purpose, Legacy, Strategy: Winning Case Draws on Company’s History and Values

Hospitality management graduate student Ruby Lin recounts her team’s first-place finish at the Case Competition for Family Ownership.

headshot of Chaitanya Baddam with the career corner graphic identifier overlaid on the photo background.
Johnson School

From Technology Director to Chief Data Officer: A Q&A with Chaitanya Baddam, MBA ’23

Career Corner: Technology executive Chaitanya Baddam pivoted from insurance platform technology director to chief data officer at an insurtech startup.

Image of Qian Wang
Johnson School

Exploring the Family’s Role in Reducing the Racial Gap in Entrepreneurship

PhD Spotlight: Research by Johnson School PhD candidate Qian Wang examines the impact of demographics on entrepreneurship.

Four people sit in red chairs on a stage.

The 2024 Families in Business Conference: Making Connections and Learning About Impact

MBA candidate Mike Weaver reflects on his experience at the 2024 Families in Business Conference and with the Smith Family Business Initiative at Cornell.

Image of a man and woman in a professional setting
Johnson School

Family Business Owners Strategize for Longevity in New Certificate Program

The Cornell Family Business Leadership certificate program guides families through unique ownership and operational challenges.

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Johnson School

Practically Improving the World Through Public Policy and Entrepreneurship

PhD Spotlight: Research by Johnson School PhD candidate Grady Raines reveals hidden hurdles and the role of family in promoting female entrepreneurship.

upper body shot of Andrew Foley standing on a balcony with trees and buildings in the background.
Johnson School

Research at the Crossroads of Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and Network Theory

PhD Spotlight: Johnson School PhD candidate Andrew Foley talks about his research on family business and entrepreneurship.

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Johnson School

From Cheese to Fashion: Exploring the Family Businesses of Italy

EMBA Americas student Brandon Jernigan recounts his experience in the 2024 Family Businesses in Italy Trek.