Steve Shaper

Steve Shaper (US'54) received the David K. Andrews Distinguished Alumni Award in 2005 for his long career of outstanding service to his community, business, the Christian Science movement, and Principia. After earning his bachelor's degree in engineering at Rice University and an MBA at Harvard Business School, Steve put his problem-solving skills to work turning around his family's failing window manufacturing business. After that first success, Steve began launching other companies, and over the next four decades he owned or partnered in some 30 businesses. One grew into the largest roof truss company in the world, and another became the industry leader in check verification services. Steve now works in a consulting capacity as a venture capitalist helping other entrepreneurs develop their companies. He also finds time to be active in his branch church and has taught Sunday School for 39 years. He has served on the boards of Rice University and Adventure Unlimited and as president of Principia's Alumni Association.