Tau Kappa Epsilon
Kappa Tau Chapter // The University of Arizona
Initiated into Tau Kappa Epsilon’s Kappa Tau Chapter in 1974, Stephen Grande quickly emerged as a leader among his peers. As an undergraduate at the University of Arizona, he served as pledge class president, Rush Chairman, co-chair of Greek Week, and ultimately Chapter President from 1977–78, while also representing the fraternity on the Interfraternity Council. His commitment to the chapter laid the foundation for a lifetime of leadership, mentorship, and service.
Stephen graduated from the University of Arizona in 1978 with a B.A. in Psychology and a minor in Economics, earning recognition on the Dean’s List. He went on to complete his Juris Doctor at Southwestern University School of Law in 1981, graduating with high honors. While there, he distinguished himself as a moot court finalist and recipient of multiple American Jurisprudence Awards.
Professionally, Stephen built a distinguished legal career spanning more than four decades. He served as a General Partner at Gilbert, Kelly, Crowley & Jennett LLP from 1981–2012, including 20 years as managing partner of the Orange County office. He chaired the firm’s Commercial Litigation and Class Action Defense Group, led new attorney training and evaluation, and worked closely with the Orange County District Attorney’s Office on insurance fraud cases. He also served as a judicial arbitrator and mediator and was nationally recognized as an AV-rated attorney by Martindale-Hubbell. From 2012–2024, he continued his practice as a self-employed attorney, advising clients across diverse industries.
Stephen was also a respected lecturer and presenter, sharing his expertise with the International Insurance Fraud Investigators Association and the Association of Southern California Defense Lawyers. Beyond his professional work, he gave back as a volunteer attorney assisting indigent clients and as a parish leader at St. Norbert Catholic Church, where he chaired committees on finance and development.
Even in his accomplished career, Stephen remained devoted to TKE. As an alumnus, he served as legal liaison advisor to Kappa Tau’s Board, assisting with corporate bylaws and helping recover embezzled chapter funds in coordination with the Tucson District Attorney’s office. His contributions safeguarded the integrity of the chapter and ensured its continued strength for future generations.
Reflecting on his lifelong connection to TKE, Stephen shares: “My association with my brothers in the Kappa Tau Chapter was one of the most enjoyable and meaningful experiences of my life. The friendships I built more than 50 years ago still endure today, and the lessons I learned in leadership, mentorship, and camaraderie shaped the successes I was privileged to experience in my career and life.”
Stephen resides in Grants Pass, Oregon, with his wife, Sandra.
