Tennessee Wesleyan College’s second annual Dr. Morris D. Goodfriend distinguished lecture series was held Tuesday to honor Dr. Goodfriend. Mr. Robert “Bobby” Goodfriend. Dr. Goodfriend’s son, was present at the event.
“Robert Goodfriend has been a great friend to the college, and we’re really thrilled to have him here,” TWC President Dr. Harley Knowles said. “We’re proud to honor Dr. Goodfriend’s legacy with this annual lecture on business ethics.”
Robert Goodfriend spoke about his father and voiced his appreciation for this event in honor of his dad. “There was no better friend to Athens, Tn. than Mike Goodfriend,” he said. “He helped a lot of people, never looking for attention, never looking for anything.”
The featured speaker this year was John Thornton, a real estate developer with current developments in eight states. Mr. Thornton is a TWC alum and has been recognized by several organizations for his entrepreneurial achievements. Mr. Thornton spoke to students, faculty, staff and honored guests about business ethics.
“I’m thrilled to see so many students,” Mr. Thornton said. “I love talking to student groups. You’re tomorrow’s leaders.”
Mr. Thornton spoke about business ethics and the importance of doing what is right. He shared a story of his development of the Crescent H Ranch in Jackson Hole, Wy. and emphasized the importance of doing what you say you will do.
“I’ve never believed that you have to beat somebody to win in business,” Mr. Thornton said. “The best business deals I ever did were win-wins.”
During his speech, Mr. Thornton emphasized the importance of behaving ethically in all situations, no matter how difficult the situation is. Mr. Thornton shared some advice with the attendees, crediting his wife, Eileen, with the statement. “You don’t need to look any further than your own heart to learn all you need to know about ethics,” he said.
For more information on the Dr. Morris D. Goodfriend Distinguished Lecture Series or TWC’s Business Administration Department, contact Dr. Martha Maddox by phone at 423-746-5245 or by email at mmaddox@twcnet.edu.