Business Value Builder Summit 2026 presented by Edward Jones

As one of the nation’s leading voices on business value acceleration and exit planning, Scott Snider will share proven frameworks that help business owners increase company value, reduce risk, and create successful transition strategies. Attendees will gain practical tools they can begin implementing immediately.

A successful entrepreneur who has founded, scaled, acquired, and exited multiple companies, Rob Slagel brings firsthand experience from every stage of the business journey. In this talk, Rob will share the mistakes he made, the lessons he learned, and the experiences that shaped his approach to building and growing successful companies. Attendees will gain an honest look at the realities of entrepreneurship and insights they can apply to their own business journey.

Amy Frasure brings the marketing and brand perspective to the conversation as the founder and owner of Bullseye Total Media, a full-service marketing and communications agency she has grown from the ground up. Drawing on her experience in media, strategy, and storytelling, Amy will share why building a strong business brand requires more than the personality and reputation of its founder. She will explore how owners can create a brand that stands on its own, builds credibility, and creates lasting value beyond the individual who started the business.

Beth Gifford brings more than 25 years of experience building and transforming organizations, from founding and successfully exiting companies to leading operations and workforce strategy within Fortune 500 enterprises. She will share an operator’s perspective on the systems, processes, people, and leadership practices that allow a business to grow and thrive beyond its founder. Beth will challenge owners to look beyond day-to-day performance and consider whether their business is truly built to scale, withstand change, and create lasting value.

Jeff Lacy brings a unique perspective shaped by experience on both sides of the desk, as a former business owner who has navigated a transition and as a CFO who now evaluates businesses through the lens of value, financial strength, and risk. He will share the often-overlooked factors that can increase or quietly erode a company’s value, from owner dependence and financial discipline to operational red flags and revenue that does not translate into lasting value.

Join Marshall University President Brad D. Smith for a candid conversation on purpose-driven leadership, entrepreneurial thinking, and the journey from building a successful career to creating meaningful impact. Drawing from his experiences leading Intuit and returning home to serve Marshall University, Smith will share lessons on leadership, legacy, and finding purpose beyond professional success.