Family Franchising

Graduate Abby Epperly Launches Franchise Coffee Shop with Father

In May 2023, Abby Epperly became the first student to graduate with an undergraduate franchise management certificate from the University of Louisville College of Business – a groundbreaking achievement for Epperly, the entire college and the Yum! Center for Global Franchise Excellence (Yum! CGFE). Her story exemplifies how passion, education, and family influence can merge into a powerful career path. Her journey has recently taken an exciting new turn as she and her father embark on a franchise venture with Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii.

Epperly’s interest in franchising was sparked during the pandemic when her father, Doug Epperly, began exploring franchise ownership as a career transition from his corporate role. His interest piqued her own. “I [thought], what is franchising? What kind of sector is that?” she recalled. Intrigued, she dove into franchise courses offered by the college, quickly finding herself drawn into the dynamic and relationship-driven world of franchising.

“I absolutely fell in love with franchising,” Epperly shared. “I took all the courses, and I learned so much that I didn’t know about business ownership, collaboration, and support networks within franchises. It’s more than just running a business; it’s about building relationships and being part of something bigger than yourself.”

During her studies, Epperly received invaluable guidance from Yum! CGFE Director and Associate Professor of Franchise Management Practice Kathy Gosser, who brought extensive franchise industry experience to the classroom. The unique curriculum, covering areas within the field such as franchise growth, legal fundamentals, and team management, equipped her with skills that would set her apart as she prepared to enter the industry. “There’s not a franchise-specific education out there like this,” said Epperly. “The Center is one of a kind—it truly provides a foundation for franchising.”

After completing her certificate, Epperly joined the Disney College Program, working as a lifeguard at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon in Orlando. She hoped to gain insights into how large companies operate and deliver exceptional experiences to guests. “I thought, ‘Let’s work for one of the world’s most renowned companies and see how it operates from the inside out,’” she explained.

With experience gained from Disney and her franchise education, Epperly has come full circle by joining her father in franchise ownership. Earlier this year, they both attended Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii’s first franchise convention in Denver, Colorado. “It’s been our dream to work together in franchising, and Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii offered the perfect opportunity to combine our goals and skills,” she noted. In her LinkedIn post following the convention, she wrote, “I couldn’t be more excited to partner with my dad on this amazing adventure.”

Abby’s accomplishment marks an important milestone for the college and the Yum! CGFE, showcasing the success of its program in preparing students for tangible, rewarding roles in franchising. Gosser shared her own reflection on Epperly’s journey, explaining that “Abby’s drive and enthusiasm for franchising were evident from the beginning. Watching her grow through the program and step into the industry as a franchise owner with her father is a testament to the real-world impact of our educational model. We couldn’t be prouder.”

Looking forward, Epperly has a message for others interested in franchising. “Many people think of small business ownership as a solo journey, but franchising gives you the support and partnership of a larger organization. And you’re never alone—there’s a whole network behind you. That’s something I learned through my education at UofL, and I can’t wait to build that network further as a franchisee.”

As the first graduate to complete the Franchise Management Certificate, Epperly’s achievements embody the Yum! CGFE’s mission: empowering individuals to create and sustain generational wealth through franchising. For her and her father, this is just the beginning of an exciting journey—a journey they are walking together, one cup of coffee at a time.