Rick Stephens is the founder of Horizon Hobby Inc., a hobby distribution business that over the course of 28 years became a world leader in the design, development and distribution of hobby products, including radio control airplanes, helicopters, cars, and model railroad equipment. Horizon grew to exceed $300 million in revenues with over 700 people and facilities in Illinois, California, London, Hamburg, and Shanghai. In 2006, Horizon became 100 percent employee-owned and in 2014, sold to private equity on behalf of the employees.   

Today Rick serves on several boards including the University of Illinois Research Park, Carle Center for Philanthropy, Stephens Family YMCA, Pinnacle Forum, and Lead Like Jesus.  He is author of In Plane Sight, Making Faith the Bedrock of Your Career, speaker, and mentor to young leaders in business.  He and Jeanene have been married 49 years and love to spend time with their children and eight grandchildren, as well as use their resources to help others be all they can be.