Fathers and daughters often have a special bond, but it takes a unique pair to merge career paths on the daily. As Father’s Day approaches, we shine a spotlight on four sets of local fathers and daughters who work together. For these remarkable duos, being colleagues is a bonus that extends beyond the familial thread of security, trust and love. Sharing professional success only enriches their relationships and workplaces, even for the two that are in-laws.
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LYONS & LYONS, ATTORNEYS AT LAW
Rob Lyons, Founder
Kara Lyons, Attorney + Managing Partner
Working together since 2015 at Lyons & Lyons, Rob Lyons and Kara Lyons each bring skills that strengthen the work of their law firm for the community. A deep respect for each other allows his wisdom and her eye for the future to guide the business.
“The best thing about working with my dad is having a built-in mentor whose office connects right to mine,” Kara says. “I can go to him with any question or problem and know I’m getting the best advice. We have such a mutual respect for each other’s opinions that it allows our daily operations to run seamlessly.”
Rob has a long history of working with family.
“I started a law firm in West Chester in 1983,” he explains. “In 1991, my father, also an attorney, came out of retirement and joined my law practice. We then practiced together for 12 years until he retired again in 2003. I thoroughly enjoyed the time we worked together.”
Fast forward to 2015 when Kara joined the firm with energy and fresh ideas.
“Kara excelled in law school and had many job opportunities upon graduation, but ultimately she decided to join my firm,” says Rob. “I was ecstatic and hoped we would have the rewarding work relationship that my father and I had.”
“My dad was extremely receptive and open to allowing me to modernize our office and procedures without any pushback,” Kara says. “From day one, he trusted me inherently, which is the best stamp of approval I could ask for.”
Rob adds, “Since Kara started practicing with me, the law practice and I have become revitalized. It has been an absolute joy.”
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PHELAN INSURANCE AGENCY
Brent Phelan, President + CEO
Amanda Phelan, Account Executive
Amanda Phelan married into the Phelan family and has been working alongside Brent Phelan, her father-in-law, at the Phelan Insurance Agency since 2013. More than a last name, they share a work environment and work ethic. A similar approach to their careers underscores a mutual understanding and admiration that extends into their family life.
“It is nice to have someone to talk to about work items outside of the workplace,” says Brent. “It is great to understand how hard she works and see how much success she has attained…it would not be possible to really understand if she was in a different industry.”
“Brent is an excellent role model both in business and on a personal level,” Amanda shares. “I like being able to discuss challenges I am facing both at work and outside of work with him and feel he can relate to the issues.”
Brent and Amanda are connected in the best possible way—by grandchildren.
“My wife sometimes laughs,” Brent shares, “as our calendar used to be crowded with work events and now it is sometimes crowded with babysitting opportunities because Amanda is attending work events like I used to attend.”
“Brent flew alone with both my daughters (then aged 2 and 5) to their Florida home while my husband and I went on an adults-only vacation,” Amanda recalls. “I logged into a Zoom meeting one morning and saw the girls sitting on his lap, enjoying the call as well.” She adds, “He has the amazing ability to juggle work, family and friends, and still be present in all situations.”
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SHIVER SECURITY SYSTEMS
Chip Shiver, Semi-Retired
Alison Shiver-Himes, Director of Sales
Alison Shiver-Himes is a third-generation employee of Shiver Security Systems. She has worked with her father Chip Shiver in the family business for more than 20 years. Together, they are a force of nature, focused on success that comes as a result of their top-notch customer service and their care for the safety of the community around them.
“I’ve enjoyed watching Alison mature in learning our business and being willing to take on many different projects and responsibilities,” Chip says.
“I always knew that Alison would put our customers first, which has been the core success of our company for the past 53 years,” he adds. “Her positive core values as a little girl have followed her through to success as a businessperson. She is competitive and focused on success.”
As Chip eases into retirement, Alison reflects on the many ways working with her father impacts her life.
“Every day I get to see my father and learn from him, not only professionally but personally,” says Alison. “He is a great mentor that has taught me to manage my time between my family and work so I can be a well-rounded wife, mother and co-worker.”
“Dad has built his legacy and is now able to enjoy all aspects of it in his partial retirement,” she explains. “He can enjoy his grandchildren—he is an amazing grandpa—work or golf whenever he wants. He deserves it!”
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AMERICAN FAMILY INSURANCE
Michael Corna, Agency Owner
Sarah Corna, Sales Specialist
For two years, family man Michael Corna and his daughter Sarah Corna have worked together at American Family Insurance in a career that helps folks prepare for some of life’s most challenging moments. This father-daughter team brings comfort during stressful times, for each other and for their clients.
“The office is a better place because we are there together,” Michael says. “Sarah has a calming and pleasant voice that resonates with the people that call us in a crisis. Having her there makes me more patient,” he adds.
“I never thought I’d be in a sales or customer service environment. Working with and learning from my dad has really helped me with this.” Sarah says. “He reminds me that there is nothing to be stressed about. Life is good!”
Knowing the little things that can make a big difference in a co-worker’s day is a key to their success at working together.
“I get to go home for lunch every day and let my dogs out,” Sarah points out. “I’m not sure if I’d be able to do that with another boss,” she says with a laugh. “I also enjoy the Dunkin’ Donuts K-cups he keeps in stock for me.”
Some family habits are hard to break: when Sarah has a question about the work calendar, she still calls her mom.
“I’m always the last one to know when Sarah is on vacation!” Michael says.
“The best thing about working with my dad is having a built-in mentor whose office connects right to mine. I can go to him with any question or problem and know that I’m getting the best advice.” – Kara Lyons