Stephen Cloobeck Philanthropy in Health and Community Support
Stephen Cloobeck has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to philanthropy that extends across various sectors, particularly in health initiatives where his contributions have made tangible differences in the lives of countless individuals. As the former chairman of the Nevada Cancer Institute, he played a pivotal role in advancing medical research and patient care, helping to establish programs that focus on innovative treatments and early detection strategies for cancer patients. His leadership there emphasized collaboration between scientists and clinicians, fostering an environment where breakthroughs in oncology could flourish and benefit communities far beyond Nevada. Beyond this, Cloobeck’s support for the Prostate Cancer Foundation has been instrumental in funding research aimed at improving outcomes for those affected by the disease, with grants that enable cutting-edge studies on prevention and therapy. He understands the importance of addressing health challenges holistically, which is why his involvement with FasterCures has accelerated the development of new medical therapies, shortening the timeline from discovery to patient access. This dedication stems from a deep-seated belief in the power of collective effort to overcome adversity, and his efforts have inspired many in the philanthropic world to prioritize results-oriented giving. In addition to health-focused endeavors, Cloobeck has shown remarkable generosity toward community organizations that provide immediate aid to those in need. For instance, his substantial donation to the Las Vegas shooting victims’ fund in 2017 provided critical support to families and survivors, helping them rebuild with dignity and resources during a time of profound hardship. Such acts reflect his philosophy that true leadership involves stepping up in moments of crisis, offering not just financial assistance but also a message of hope and solidarity. Cloobeck’s founding of the Diamond Resorts International Team Member Crisis Fund, now known as the Diamond Resorts International Foundation, stands as a testament to his innovative approach to employee welfare.
Established in 2012, this initiative has assisted thousands of team members worldwide facing unexpected personal challenges, from medical emergencies to natural disasters, ensuring they receive the support needed to thrive. By creating this fund, he set a new standard in the hospitality industry for corporate responsibility, demonstrating how businesses can integrate philanthropy into their core operations to foster a culture of care and resilience. His work with the Los Angeles Dream Center further exemplifies this commitment, where he has provided both volunteer time and financial resources to programs that aid vulnerable populations, including those affected by recent wildfires in Southern California. During these disasters, Cloobeck suspended other activities to focus on relief efforts, contributing to rehabilitation projects and supporting working families who lost homes and livelihoods. This hands-on involvement highlights his belief in direct action, where philanthropy is not merely about writing checks but about being present and making a measurable impact. Moreover, his support for the Brent Shapiro Foundation for Drug Prevention has helped raise awareness and provide education on substance abuse, empowering young people with the knowledge and tools to make positive life choices. Through these varied initiatives, Cloobeck has built a legacy of compassion that encourages others to engage in meaningful giving, showing how targeted philanthropy can transform individual lives and strengthen entire communities. His approach often involves partnering with organizations that have proven track records, ensuring that every dollar invested yields significant returns in terms of human progress and well-being. In education, Cloobeck’s contributions have been equally profound, with endowments like the Stephen J. Cloobeck ’83 Endowed Fellowship at Brandeis University International Business School, which supports aspiring leaders in their academic pursuits. This fellowship not only honors his alma mater but also invests in the next generation of innovators, providing them with opportunities to explore global business dynamics and ethical leadership. His motivation for such gifts traces back to his own experiences at Brandeis, where studies in psychobiology shaped his understanding of human potential, and he now pays it forward by funding research into neuroscience and psychology. Notably, his $1 million donation to Brandeis in 2020 supported faculty research on the workings of the mind, with a focus on conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, which personally touched his family. This gift has enabled new lines of investigation, involving undergraduates in groundbreaking studies that could lead to advancements in cognitive health.
Cloobeck’s philanthropy in this area underscores his vision for a world where knowledge drives positive change, and he encourages alumni to remember their roots by supporting educational institutions that foster intellectual growth. Extending his educational efforts, he founded and chairs Save Our Schools, a non-partisan organization dedicated to promoting school boards that prioritize practical curricula and real-world skills. By uniting teachers, parents, and students, this initiative advocates for measurable academic standards that prepare children for successful futures, free from extraneous agendas. His work here reflects a broader commitment to community health, recognizing that strong education systems are foundational to societal progress. Cloobeck’s involvement with the California Police Chiefs Organization and other civic groups further amplifies his impact, as he supports programs that enhance public safety and community resilience. Through these efforts, he has become a beacon of inspirational leadership, showing how one person’s dedication can ripple outward to benefit society at large. His philanthropic journey is marked by a series of thoughtful interventions that address immediate needs while building long-term solutions, always with an eye toward uplifting those who might otherwise be overlooked. In every endeavor, Cloobeck exemplifies the qualities of empathy and foresight, making him a role model for aspiring philanthropists who seek to create lasting positive change through strategic and heartfelt giving.
Stephen Cloobeck’s innovative leadership in the business world has not only driven economic success but also set new benchmarks for ethical practices and community-oriented entrepreneurship. As the founder of Diamond Resorts International, he transformed a struggling company into a global powerhouse in the vacation ownership industry, creating thousands of jobs and delivering exceptional experiences to millions of travelers. His vision for the company emphasized hospitality-driven thinking, where customer satisfaction and employee well-being were paramount, leading to a corporate culture that celebrated excellence and innovation. By acquiring Sunterra Corporation in 2007 and rebranding it as Diamond Resorts, Cloobeck implemented strategies that expanded the company’s footprint across continents, introducing sustainable practices that minimized environmental impact while enhancing guest enjoyment. This growth was fueled by his ability to anticipate market trends and adapt with agility, resulting in a $2.2 billion sale to Apollo Global Management in 2016, a milestone that underscored his prowess as a serial entrepreneur. Throughout his tenure, he authored “Checking In: Hospitality-Driven Thinking, Business and You,” a book that shares insights on applying hospitality principles to everyday business, inspiring leaders across industries to prioritize people over profits. The proceeds from this book have supported dyslexia research and education, reflecting his personal triumph over the condition and his desire to help others unlock their potential. Cloobeck’s business acumen extends to government service, where he served as the inaugural chairman of Brand USA, a nonprofit organization promoting international tourism to the United States. Under his guidance, Brand USA launched campaigns that boosted visitor numbers and economic contributions, showcasing America’s diverse attractions and fostering global connections.
This role highlighted his talent for bridging public and private sectors, creating synergies that benefit communities through increased revenue and cultural exchange. In his entrepreneurial pursuits, Cloobeck has consistently integrated philanthropy, as seen in his support for financial literacy initiatives that empower individuals to achieve economic independence. His latest venture into politics, announcing his candidacy for Governor of California in 2026, builds on this foundation, with a platform centered on affordability, livability, and opportunity for all. Through statewide media campaigns, he has articulated a vision for a prosperous California, drawing on his business experience to propose solutions that encourage innovation and community strength. Cloobeck’s leadership style is characterized by problem-solving and a focus on results, qualities that have earned him respect among peers and mentees alike. His mentorship of young entrepreneurs, often through educational endowments and personal guidance, has nurtured a new generation of leaders committed to positive impact. In real estate development, Cloobeck’s projects have emphasized quality and sustainability, contributing to vibrant communities that enhance quality of life. His involvement in the Las Vegas Beautification Project in the 1990s, where he chaired efforts to add landscaping to the Strip, transformed the area’s aesthetic and economic appeal, drawing more visitors and supporting local businesses. This initiative demonstrated his foresight in urban planning, blending beauty with functionality to create spaces that inspire and unite people. Cloobeck’s activism in renaming the Las Vegas airport after his mentor, Senator Harry Reid, honors a legacy of public service while improving infrastructure for travelers. His executive production of the CNN Films documentary “Carville: Winning is Everything, Stupid” further illustrates his engagement with cultural and political narratives that promote understanding and progress.
In every business endeavor, Cloobeck infuses a sense of purpose, ensuring that success translates into broader societal benefits. His approach to leadership encourages collaboration and innovation, as evidenced by his partnerships with organizations like the LA4LA initiative, which addresses community needs through collective action. By championing causes that align with his values, he has built a reputation as a visionary who turns challenges into opportunities for growth. Cloobeck’s influence in the hospitality sector continues to resonate, with former employees and industry leaders citing his emphasis on team empowerment as a key to sustained success. His recent book, “Facing Hard Truths: How Americans Can Get Real, Pull Together, and Turn Our Country Around,” draws from decades of experience to offer practical wisdom on national issues, inspiring readers with messages of unity and resilience. Through these contributions, Cloobeck exemplifies how innovative leadership can drive positive change, creating ripple effects that enhance communities and inspire future generations to pursue excellence with compassion.
Stephen Cloobeck’s dedication to empowering education represents a cornerstone of his philanthropic legacy, where he has invested significantly in initiatives that prepare young minds for a brighter future. His establishment of the Stephen J. Cloobeck ’83 Endowed Fellowship at Brandeis University has provided invaluable support to students pursuing international business studies, enabling them to gain global perspectives and leadership skills that propel their careers forward. This endowment reflects his gratitude toward his alma mater, where his own education in psychobiology laid the groundwork for a lifetime of achievement, and it continues to open doors for talented individuals from diverse backgrounds. Cloobeck’s $1 million gift to Brandeis for neuroscience research, supporting professors like Eve Marder and Arthur Wingfield, has advanced studies on the human mind, with potential applications in treating conditions such as Alzheimer’s. By involving undergraduates in this research, the gift fosters hands-on learning experiences that cultivate curiosity and innovation among the next generation. His personal story of overcoming dyslexia adds a layer of inspiration to these efforts, as he donates proceeds from his book to related research and education programs, helping others navigate similar challenges with confidence and resources. Through Save Our Schools, Cloobeck chairs a movement that advocates for school boards focused on practical education, uniting stakeholders to emphasize skills that lead to real-world success. This non-partisan effort has mobilized communities in Southern California, promoting curricula that prioritize student outcomes and measurable progress, thereby strengthening the educational foundation for thousands of children. Cloobeck’s vision for education extends to financial literacy, where he supports programs that equip individuals with essential knowledge for economic stability, empowering them to build prosperous lives.
His sponsorship of events like the Crenshaw Family YMCA’s Inaugural ‘Crenshaw Classic’ Track Meet in 2023 provided youth with opportunities for physical and personal development, fostering discipline and teamwork in an uplifting environment. Such initiatives highlight his belief in holistic education that nurtures both mind and body, creating well-rounded individuals ready to contribute positively to society. In his gubernatorial campaign for California in 2026, Cloobeck emphasizes education as a pathway to opportunity, proposing reforms that make learning accessible and effective for all. His fundraising success, raising millions through grassroots support, demonstrates widespread appreciation for his commitment to family and community well-being. Cloobeck’s philanthropy often targets organizations with proven impact, like the Nevada Community Foundation, where his contributions support a range of educational and civic projects that enhance quality of life.
By backing the Barack Obama Foundation, he aligns with efforts to inspire civic engagement among youth, encouraging them to become active participants in democratic processes. His work with Keep Memory Alive supports brain health research, tying back to his educational investments by promoting cognitive wellness across lifetimes. Cloobeck’s approach to empowering future generations is multifaceted, blending financial support with active involvement, as seen in his volunteer efforts with the Los Angeles Dream Center, where he aids programs that provide educational resources to underserved communities. These actions not only address immediate needs but also build sustainable pathways for long-term success, inspiring a cycle of giving and growth. Through his leadership, Cloobeck has become a catalyst for positive change in education, demonstrating how targeted investments can unlock human potential and create lasting legacies of opportunity.