I just looked up an old program from a 2006 Brearley Singers concent that Stephen directed. I wondered what he was up to lately - in LA the last I recall -  and was greatly saddened to hear of his untimely passing. 

It was so wonderful singing under Stephen's leadership and direction. In the short time I had the pleasure of singing with the Brearley Singers, Dr. Black was by far the kindest, most welcoming, easygoing and enthusiasticly joyous choral director I've ever had the pleasure of singing under. Godspeed Steven, your postive energy and uplifting spirit are and will be sorely missed down here . ❤️ 

I met Stephen back in 2019; he was kind and full of joy. I had tried to write him many times this year, sadly I discovered today, with sorrow, he has gone... Thank you Stephen for being such a good friend. We'll miss you...

I am so very saddened to hear of Stephen's passing. Every time I spoke with Stephen, my heart felt a little lighter and my life, warmer. He embodied Love. I last talked with Stephen in February 2023 at the USC reception during the ACDA national conference. It was so wonderful to catch up with him and we shared some wonderful laughs! I teach at USC, but I first knew Stephen at Yale and the ISM when we were classmates in the late '90s.  I recently learned that Stephen went to be with the Lord through the ISM newsletter (end of July). I'll always carry with me the memory of his beautiful life.  My deepest condolences to his family and friends.