by Olivia Discon
On November 5, 2025, the Office of the President at Sam Houston State University hosted a panel featuring SHSU alumnus and founder of Wildseed Farms, John Thomas. In a week already filled with reflection on SHSU’s impact on the world, this event served as the perfect precursor to the Distinguished Alumni Gala, which was scheduled for the following day.
Moderated by President Alisa White, the conversation began in song—as it was Mr. Thomas’s 80th birthday!
Mr. Thomas, who graduated from SHSU with a degree in Business Administration, embodies the entrepreneurial spirit. In 1971, he founded Wildseed Farms, which has grown into a uniquely multifaceted enterprise: a working farm, picture-perfect destination, winery, vineyard, gift shop, and beer garden all in one. The diversity of his business reflects the diversity of his interests and of the customers he serves in Fredericksburg, TX.
President White emphasized the value of an “entrepreneurial mindset,” prompting Mr. Thomas to reflect on his own. He spoke plainly about failure, noting he had four businesses that didn’t make it. But instead of discouragement, he embraced each setback as a step forward, reinforcing the importance of “failing forward” and refusing to be defeated when something didn’t work. His message was simple: success comes from doing what you love, staying flexible, and letting your passions guide you.
One of the most charming stories he shared was how the idea for Wildseed Farms emerged. He noticed people pulling over on the side of the highway—often dangerously—to take photos with blooming wildflowers. What began as a desire to help people bring that beauty into their own spaces grew into an expansive business shaped by the customers themselves. He noted that if you’re too focused on any one thing, you won’t notice what’s around you.
President White seized on this point, noting that whether someone’s venture involves wildflowers or a different vision, the lesson is universal: pay attention, follow your passions, take the risk, and don’t put all your eggs—or as Mr. Thomas put it, all your flowers—in one field.
Mr. Thomas also described how the natural rhythm of the seasons shapes his business. To maintain constant color throughout the year, he developed a process called bloom succession, staggering the planting of seeds aligned with their ideal growing periods. This ensured Wildseed Farms always had vibrant fields to offer, no matter the time of year.Another key to his success is his team. With 87 employees, he places great emphasis on keeping everyone engaged and informed. Much like his business, his team is diversified—employees cross-train across divisions, spending time in different roles to understand the full picture. This strategy builds unity and prevents the all-too-common refrain of “that isn’t my job.” As President White added, ownership within an organization is essential; when every person understands the broader mission, the entire team flourishes.
Thank you very much to President White for fostering an excellent discussion that is crucial for young people entering an ever-changing workforce, and to the President’s Cabinet for hosting incredible events such as these.
Center for Law, Engagement, and Politics 