Kapaun Biography


	“I am deeply grateful to anyone who takes a moment to find out why Specialty Java is so different. At the end of the day, what I value most is the opinion of our clients. You have my personal promise I will try to impress you beyond your expectations. Nothing, and I mean nothing, is more important than our reputation.” Kevin Kapaun President & Founder SpecialtyJava.com

Kevin’s passion for coffee excellence had roots in the Caribbean Island of Jamaica. While savoring the exquisite flavor of pure Jamaican Blue Mountain, his vision was created to import exclusive coffee beans from around the world. Sampling the finest coffee from different countries over the next decade set the stage for the future. In the late 1990's Kevin's hobby of creating unique coffee bean blends and coffee roasting was born. Initially roasting for friends and family as special gifts, he was headed for something bigger. One gracious recipient was his friend and "Rock N' Roll Hall of Fame" bassist Larry Graham of Graham Central Station. (Formerly Sly & the Family Stone) Larry and his family lived in Jamaica for 7 years and they enjoy Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee. It was Larry's encouragement for Kevin to share his "art" form by starting a Roastery. SpecialtyJava.com was born. Kevin finds reading the passionate testimonials sent in by clients extremely gratifying. Knowing that thousands of clients across the USA are enjoying the fruits of his art brings him a deep sense of satisfaction. The opportunity to do something in your life that you truly love, is the best reward of all. Kevin’s success is deeply rooted entrepreneurial spirit. His first business creation was selling plums door-to-door at the age of 6 followed by several other entrepreneurial endeavors during Junior and Senior High School. Driven by this spirit, he enjoys helping independent coffee shops succeed in the face of competition from Starbucks. Kevin is also founder, president and chief executive officer of Emerging Technology Services, Inc. Since 1985, ETS has been providing executive search services for Fortune 500 corporations across the United States. Originally from North Dakota, Kevin attended the University of Minnesota from 1975 to 1980, pursuing dual majors in Business Administration and Music Education. Kevin and his wife of 22 years, Shirley, have 2 children, enjoy travel and extensive volunteering.