Stephen
Covey

Stephen Richards Covey, born on October 24, 1932, in Salt Lake City, Utah, and passing away on July 16, 2012, in Idaho Falls, Idaho, was an influential American educator, author, businessman, and speaker. His journey began deeply rooted in the values and teachings of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, shaping his perspectives and contributions to personal development and leadership. Covey's academic pursuits led him to earn a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from the University of Utah, an MBA from Harvard University, and a Doctor of Religious Education from Brigham Young University. He was a member of the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity and was honored with ten honorary doctorates.

Covey's philosophical and professional foundations were significantly influenced by the works of Peter Drucker and Carl Rogers, alongside a profound study of American self-help literature, which he explored in his doctoral dissertation. This blend of influences, coupled with his deep Latter-day Saint faith, culminated in his best-known work, "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People," which has sold more than 20 million copies worldwide since its first publication in 1989. This book, alongside his other works like "The 8th Habit" and "The Leader In Me," demonstrates Covey's unique approach to combining timeless principles with practical application, impacting individuals and organizations around the globe. Covey's legacy extends beyond his writings into his roles as a professor and a speaker, where he continued to inspire and guide leaders in embracing effectiveness and greatness.