The Jim Moran Institute
for Global Entrepreneurship
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Awards4U

Sam Varn

The first thing I have to say is that I couldn't help but notice there are many beautiful women here with us today...but as lovely as they all are...there's only one Trophy Wife...and that's MY wife, Nancy!

Let me take you back to May 9, 2002...it's 7:30 in the morning and Jerry and I are sitting in the Radisson hotel restaurant for one of our monthly "how's it going" meetings. Sales are down, the effects of 9-11 are still being felt but we were still there to complain about it all. Expecting some sage wisdom from Jerry as usual, instead he offers some unexpected advice. "Sell your company" he says..."you're burning out and you should sell before you bring the company down." NOT what I was expecting...

But whether Jerry did it on purpose or not, that conversation inspired me to prove him wrong. You see, to me, selling my company at that time would be like failing. And failure only happens when you quit. So I decided to persevere because I know that perseverance and failure cannot co-exist. Perseverance is the ultimate success insurance. Nothing can take its place.

So I went out and hired an aggressive Sales Manager and some outside sales people. We developed a five year plan for growth and expansion. Today I'm pleased to say that our sales are up 16% above a record 2003 and we continue to open new avenues of growth.

I have come to realize that one of the many things you need to persevere is the support of your family, your social and career environment. Look around and ask yourself if the people who surround you add to, or detract from your willingness to do what's necessary to achieve your goals. And then the changes essential to pursue your aspirations.

I've been very fortunate and blessed to have that supportive family, social and career environment and I hope I offer the same to those that know me. Nancy is always there for me, regardless of the situation. My friends offer encouragement when things get difficult. But probably most importantly, from a business perspective, my staff follows me with the loyalty and dedication necessary for not only me but also for my company to persevere. For those things I will also be grateful. I'd like to acknowledge Jeff Wilson, Neil Autrey, Jan Beyer and Mike Yates for their continual support and contributions to our success. They represent over 45 years of service and the keys to our prosperity. I accept this award on behalf of them and all members of my staff.

Thank you.