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The University of Tampa’s Sykes College of Business Hall of Fame Business Speaker Series will take place on Thursday, Feb. 25, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. as a free, hybrid event that welcomes attendees both online (via Zoom) and in person (at Falk Theatre, 428 W. Kennedy Blvd.).

The event is called “Nurturing a Local Business in a Global Environment” and will feature two speakers: James L. Ferman Jr., CEO and president of Ferman Motor Car Company and chairman of the board at Tampa Bay Banking Company; and Oscar J. Horton, president of Sun State International Trucks LLC.

Founded in 1895 by Ferman’s grandfather, W. Frederick Ferman, the Ferman family business is ranked one of the largest dealership groups in Florida and in the U.S., with more than 1,300 employees and annual sales of $850 million.

Horton has been president of his company, a full-service commercial transportation organization, since 2000. With more than 25 years of experience at International Truck & Engine Corp., Horton has a proven record of managing organizational change and improving business efficiencies. During his presidency, the company has increased its revenue by more than 467% and has improved its profitability, employee morale and customer satisfaction.

The Sykes Hall of Fame Business Speaker Series was created to augment the learning of all Sykes College of Business students, specifically the undergraduate students. It provides students with a rich and vibrant experience, which adds to their portfolio of learning business leadership at the college. Guest speakers who participate in this event are nationally known business leaders and entrepreneurs who have an excellent reputation and story to tell. They share their personal experiences with several hundred students and provide an opportunity for these students to gain firsthand insight into the realities, challenges and perseverance that is required to become a highly notable leader in the business community.

Attendees must RSVP in advance to register for the event. In-person seating is limited.

If you have questions about the event, feel free to contact Jordan Hurwitz, staff assistant in the Sykes College of Business, at jhurwitz@ut.edu or (813) 257-3039.