Spark and the John L. Ward Center for Family Enterprises at Kellogg School of Management have joined forces to bring you an extraordinary educational experience designed specifically for the Spark community.

This exclusive collaboration combines Spark's relationship-centered community approach with the Ward Center's world-class academic rigor, creating a powerful learning environment where research-backed strategies meet practical application and personal growth.

The Learning Journey

Led by Dr. Matt Allen, John L. Ward Clinical Professor and Executive Director of the Ward Center for Family Enterprises, and facilitated by Spark member and advisor Matt McCall, these intimate roundtable conversations provide a rare opportunity to engage with cutting-edge research while connecting with peers facing similar challenges.

Each session follows a thoughtful structure that balances academic expertise with interactive peer-to-peer learning, creating a space where vulnerability, intentional dialogue, and genuine human connection flourish.

We extend our sincere gratitude to Matt McCall for his instrumental role in making this partnership possible.

Schedule

Strategic Governance

March 18 | 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM PT | Virtual
Register
Session Overview

Legacy Leadership

June 3 | 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM PT | Virtual

Managing Difficult Family Conversations

September 30 | 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM PT | Virtual

Engaging the Next Generations

October 28 | In-person at Summit in NYC

Format

Roundtable Structure

• Introduction to the topic

• Attendee introductions with pre-assigned discussion questions

• Presentation by Dr. Allen + Breakout Sessions

• Open group dialogue

Resources

• Topic primers and relevant materials will be shared before each session to facilitate deeper discussion.

• Additional resources will be provided after each session for those who wish to further explore the topic.

What You’ll Gain

• Expert-Led Insights: Learn directly from a renowned academic leader who combines scholarly expertise with practical family business experience

• Practical Family Office Strategies: Acquire actionable frameworks for strategic governance, legacy leadership, and inter-generational communication

• Peer-Based Learning Environment: Engage in confidential, small-group discussions with fellow members facing similar challenges

• Research-Backed Approaches: Access the latest thinking from Kellogg's prestigious family enterprise research, translated into applicable family office practices

• Spark's Signature Atmosphere: Experience discussions guided by Spark's core principles of generosity, authenticity, respect, and impact

Participant Engagement

To maximize the value of this series, participants are encouraged to review pre-session materials, reflect on the discussion questions, and come prepared to actively contribute to the conversation. While each session explores a distinct topic valuable on its own, together they address essential family office considerations. We strongly encourage participation across all sessions to build a foundation of shared knowledge and trusted relationships, enhancing your overall learning journey and creating a more cohesive community experience.

Strengthening Our Tapestry

This educational series enhances Spark's commitment to interweaving personal growth, family legacy, and global impact through academic insights and shared experiences.