By Meagan Ghormley
E.M. “Manny” Rosenthal, namesake of the Rosenthal Meat Science and Technology Center, was presented the 2012 Texas A&M University Distinguished Texas in Agriculture Award posthumously on Oct. 23. His wife and longtime business partner, Roz Rosenthal, accepted the award and, along with her son Billy, shared family memories and lessons learned from decades in business and agriculture.
It is because of the support of this family that “clearly make our program what it is today – number one in the nation,” said Dr. Larry Boleman, associate vice chancellor for outreach and strategic initiatives.
This award, established in 1993, is the highest award that can be given from the College of Agriculture. The purpose of the award is to recognize and honor agricultural leaders in Texas for their outstanding leadership and significant contributions to Texas agriculture.
E.M. “Manny” Rosenthal fits that description beautifully.
Throughout his life, Rosenthal always sought out to help others. In 1942, he enlisted in the United States Army and worked as one of the first people to enter the Army as an educated butcher. After he returned, he took over the family owned packing plant, Standard Meat Company.
Rosenthal was very passionate about the industry. He was good about not complaining about what was wrong, but he wanted to financial help make it better.
In 1987, the Texas A&M Meat Sciences and Technology Center was dedicated to Rosenthal and his wife. Since its dedication there have been more than 30, 000 students taking class in that building. In addition, the students in conjunction with Texas A&M have harvested over 26, 000 head of cattle for research, educational and consumption purposes. Over 20 million dollars worth of research has passed through the Rosenthal meats center.
However, Rosenthal wasn’t always financially able. In 1965, Standard Meat Company hit a rough patch. The businesses net worth was zero, but Rosenthal never gave up.
“Don’t be scare of what’s going to happen. If we can’t make it, the building is brick and mortar,” said Roz Rosenthal. “Just keep plugging.”
He sought out to keep his business afloat. It was through the help of Norman Brinker that Standard Meat Company was able to get the contract with Steak & Ale and later Pizza Hut.
Interpersonal relations is what kept Manny Rosenthal’s company alive. He knew having a good and reputable relationship was key to staying on top.
“We stuck with everyone we had done business with,” said Roz. They knew that maintaining relationships with the people that mattered would help their business exceed its full potential.
Roz Rosenthal said her husband was always true to himself and that’s why he was successful. She said we make our own happiness so be what makes you happy.
Hear more of the conversation in the video below:
Meagan Ghormley is a Senior Agricultural Communications and Journalism major from Madisonville, Texas.
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For more information regarding news from the Department of Animal Science within the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Texas A&M University, please contact Courtney Coufal at cacoufal@tamu.edu or (979) 845-1542.