Mission Statement
While facing unique challenges, family businesses are vital to the economic and social fabric of Mississippi. As a part of the UM CIE Legacy Leadership Program, the It’s All Relative Family Business Symposium aspires to be an open forum where Family Business owners, leaders, family members, and employees from a variety of industries can share insights and make connections in order to learn best practices from knowledgeable industry leaders.
From case studies to networking opportunities, the It’s All Relative Family Business Symposium inspires attendees to grow and to continue their family businesses for generations to come. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, learn from industry experts, and gain a deeper understanding of the significance of maintaining family business traditions.

Meet the Host
Dr. Clay Dibrell is the Co-Director of the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE) at The University of Mississippi. Prior to receiving his Ph.D., Clay worked in the telecommunications industry, in small businesses, and as a small business advisor with an emphasis on new business creation in the US Peace Corps in Kenya. His interest in entrepreneurship and small business comes from his family, where both of his grandfathers’ either started or ran small businesses, his father in-law and mother in-law ran a successful small business before retiring, and his father founded and managed a successful radio station for 29 years. With the knowledge learned from his family and entrepreneurs that he has worked with in the past serving, Clay takes great pride and joy working with Ole Miss entrepreneurs through the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship.
Dr. Clay Dibrell
Chair of Entrepreneurial Excellence and Professor of Management
Family Forum Newsletter
A central hub for essential news, event information, and opportunities unique to Mississippi family business owners, leaders, and employees.

What People Are Saying
“The conference was a unique and impressive mix of owners from first, second, and some third generation. They were honest in sharing their stories and journey to help those around them. What an amazing opportunity- we will definitely attend every year. Hats off to Dr. Clay Dibrell and his team for creating something educational and pertinent for family businesses.”
Monica Harrigill,
Co-Owner of The Sunray Companies
Become a Sponsor
Invest in the continuity of Mississippi family businesses by becoming a sponsor for the It’s All Relative Family Business Symposium. With your support, the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship can continue to provide informational and networking opportunities for family business owners, leaders, and employees in Mississippi.