The Founders Award recognizes the top family business in Texas that has succeeded in its industry while staying true to the principles and mission of company’s originating founder.

The Dwyer Group, which was established more than 20 years ago by the late Don Dwyer Sr., today includes more than 1,300 franchises in 26 countries through its subsidiary and affiliate companies. The company was recently named to Fortune Small Business Magazine’s Fastest-Growing Companies in the nation for 2002. And all Dwyer family members, corporate staff, franchise owners, and employees still follow the same company mission and Dwyer Group Code of Values that were initiated on day one.

“Having known Don Dwyer during the beginning stages of The Dwyer Group, I am proud that his family has continued to revere and enact the Code of Values that were established at the outset,” said J. David Allen, director of the John F. Baugh Center for Entrepreneurship.

“We are so proud to receive this honor,” said Dina Dwyer-Owens, president and CEO of The Dwyer Group. “It was my father’s vision that launched a worldwide company, and everyone at The Dwyer Group remains committed to what he started.

“Strong founders in any business, let alone a family business, are the leaders we admire, the visionaries we follow, and the people we hope to emulate,” Dwyer-Owens said.

Don Dwyer passed away in 1994. In his honor, The Dwyer Group hosts a “Founder’s Day” each year to reconnect with his vision for the company as well as enjoy special activities for family members, staff, and their children.

The Dwyer Group Inc., based in Waco, TX, is a public holding company that owns six franchisor corporations. Each corporation sells and supports a different service-based brand name franchise, including Aire Serv® Heating & Air Conditioning.

Publication date: 10/07/2002