Yocum Oil Company Named Minnesota Multi-generational Family Business of the Year

The University of St. Thomas awarded Yocum Oil Company, Inc. as the Minnesota Multi-generational Business of the Year at their Tenth Annual Award Program in 1999.  

The Entrepreneurship Program at St. Thomas is committed to business excellence.  The program brings together small business, franchising, family business and entrepreneurial initiatives into a focused and coordinated effort.  Through education, research, and service activities, the program is an active partner with industry in developing business start-ups, growth and increased productivity.  The program coordinates the various activities of several entrepreneurial centers and institutes.

In regard to being part of a multi-generational family business, Tony Yocum IV said: "I was fortunate to have the opportunity to work with my parents in the family business.  I learned from them how to manage, grow, and transfer the business.  Our sons had freedom of choice to join the family business or not, but each had to work outside the family business before deciding.  This allows for such things as integrity, loyalty, honesty, goal-oriented tasks, and the grass isn't always greener on the other side."