Stevenson H. Waltien, Jr. died Saturday. The state, the community, and the Stern Center lost a great friend and champion. Steve was a community treasure eager to share his time and talents to ensure the greater good. For nine years we at the Stern Center have been blessed to be one of Steve’s passions of service. Through his powerful regard for learning, his welcoming good humor, and his enthusiasm for our mission, Steve brought personal and professional strength to his role on the Board and most recently to his role as Board Chair.

Steve was about improving lives, and we are all the better for his having helped do that through the Stern Center. The image I will carry is from just last week when he slapped me on the back and gave me thumbs-up as we parted after a meeting.