Valencia, CA – Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Stephen M. Rapier is recognized as a Pinnacle Lifetime Member for his contributions to marketing and education.
Dr. Stephen M. Rapier has established an impressive career in marketing and education, serving as both an industry leader and an influential academic. With a strong foundation in brand authenticity and trust, he has guided organizations toward effective communication strategies while shaping the minds of future marketing professionals through higher education.
He earned his Bachelor of Science in marketing with a minor in business economics from California State University at Long Beach. He went on to complete both his Executive MBA and Ph.D. in brand authenticity and trust at the Drucker School at Claremont University, where he developed advanced expertise in consumer behavior, branding strategy, and organizational leadership.
His professional accomplishments span both business and education. Dr. Rapier has held key leadership roles at major companies, including serving as president of Sebring Hard Disc Systems, vice president at J. B. Schulz and Company, director of marketing at Helisys, and executive vice president at The Artime Group. His ability to translate marketing theory into successful business application has earned him respect across multiple industries.
In academia, Dr. Rapier has served as a guest lecturer at the University of Southern California and California State University before joining Claremont Graduate University as an adjunct professor of marketing. He later joined the Graziadio School of Business and Management at Pepperdine University, where he has served in multiple faculty roles and currently teaches as an adjunct professor of marketing. His coursework includes MBA level instruction in marketing management, global brand management, global marketing, and luxury brand management, with a focus on integrating real world business collaboration into the classroom.
Dr. Rapier has also contributed extensively in consulting and advisory capacities. He has served on the advisory board of the Connective Leadership Institute since 2006, offering insight into leadership development and applied research initiatives.
Deeply committed to his faith and community, Dr. Rapier actively serves within Grace Baptist Church. He is the Food Director for the annual Fall Festival, coordinating partnerships with local businesses including Chick fil A. He also serves as a table leader for Vacation Bible School and has been affectionately known as the Snack Guy for Sunday School for over twenty five years, reflecting his dedication to service and community engagement.
Family holds a meaningful place in his life. He honors the memory of his mother, Helen Rapier, who greatly influenced his values and work ethic. He has been married to his wife, Dianne Rapier, RN, for more than two decades, and together they have raised two children who continue to inspire him.
Dr. Rapier’s commitment to excellence in both marketing and education reflects his belief in purposeful leadership, community service, and the importance of trust in every professional relationship. He continues to make a positive impact through teaching, mentorship, and thought leadership in the marketing field.
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