John L. Ward Center to Honor Brenninkmeijer Family at Family Leadership Award Summit

John L. Ward Center to Honor Brenninkmeijer Family

The John L. Ward Center for Family Enterprises, nestled within Northwestern University's prestigious Kellogg School of Management, is gearing up for its fourth annual re:connect Summit. Scheduled for May 14, 2026, this summit aims to unite family enterprise owners and leaders in a collaborative environment, fostering discussions on maintaining momentum across generations in their businesses.

A Celebration of Family Leadership

A highlight of the summit will be the presentation of the coveted Family Leadership Award. This accolade pays tribute to outstanding individuals and families who exemplify exemplary leadership within family businesses and inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs around the globe. The Brenninkmeijer family is the proud recipient of this year's award. With a rich history dating back to 1841 in the Netherlands, the Brenninkmeijer family has significantly impacted the European business landscape. Their enterprise has evolved from a humble clothing business to the expansive COFRA conglomerate, encompassing a variety of sectors including retail, private equity, real estate, and asset management across six generations.

Insights from Industry Experts

Edward Brenninkmeijer, a member of the sixth generation and the current Chief Investment Officer of Amesto, will accept this prestigious award on behalf of his family. As an alumnus of Kellogg, Edward's presence at the summit is both symbolic and significant, representing continuity in leadership and vision.

The summit agenda promises a wealth of knowledge, featuring insights from family enterprise leaders, top industry experts, and renowned faculty from Kellogg. Among the notable presentations, Robert Pasin, a Kellogg alumnus and the CEO of Radio Flyer, will deliver the keynote address titled Play to Win. His experiences and success stories serve as a motivational backdrop for all attendees, reinforcing the importance of innovation and adaptability in family-run enterprises.

Register to Engage

The re:connect Summit is open to members of business-owned families, non-family executives, and board directors. This inclusive approach cultivates a diverse spectrum of perspectives, essential for the growth and evolution of family businesses. Participants can expect to engage in insightful discussions that will equip them with the tools to navigate the complexities of leading a family enterprise today and in the future.

As the date approaches, many are keenly anticipating the wealth of knowledge and collaborative spirit that the summit promises to deliver. With its focus on family leadership and generational transition, this event serves as an important reminder of the pivotal role family enterprises play in the global economy and societal development.

In summary, the John L. Ward Center will not only bestow an honor but also ignite conversations that could shape the future of family enterprises around the world. Join us in celebrating the Brenninkmeijer family's legacy and exploring new pathways for business sustainability and innovation.

Participation in this event will undoubtedly leave attendees enriched and inspired, ready to tackle the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the realm of family business leadership.