Alumni of the Year (2024)

Drawing inspiration from his prior setback at UW, Ron enrolled at San Jose State University in late 1955 and obtained his Bachelor of Science degree in entomology. Building on this achievement, he pursued a master’s degree in Entomology from the University of Idaho. He then returned to San Jose State University to launch his professional career as an associate professor of entomology. Following a decade of dedicated work, he completed his doctorate in Natural and Earth Science and Entomology while also earning a tenured faculty status. Ron's scholarly pursuits extended to co-authoring "The Giant Sequoia of the Sierra Nevada" and "Giant Sequoia Ecology – Fire and Reproduction." Renowned as a leading authority on the giant Sequoia, he dedicated substantial efforts to studying the insect life thriving within the towering Sequoia trees in the Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. Reflecting on his journey, Dr. Stecker considers himself fortunate to have the opportunity to contribute significantly to his field, including obtaining a doctorate and delving into the study of Sequoia trees. He views these accomplishments as particularly meaningful and shares, “It was quite the accomplishment for a kid who grew up fishing in Lake Sacajawea.”

 

During his formative years in the Longview community and at LCC, Ron recalls, "I was surrounded by community members who recognized the importance and value of LCC. I used to mow Mrs. Alton Clark's lawn on Nichols Boulevard, one of the individuals who contributed to the establishment of Lower Columbia College and was also the first registrar of LCJC [LCC was formerly named Lower Columbia Junior College]. Many of my friends also attended LCC. It was a valuable stepping stone for me, offering me the opportunity to grow and mature while pursuing my associate's degree and living at home, which proved to be an affordable option for me."

 

Ron and Phyllis, who have been married for 67 years, have three children, Susan, Karen, and Bob, as well as six grandchildren. Ron's hobbies include photography, music, and fishing. Ron and Phyllis have spent the last 25 years of retirement in Sequim, Washington where Ron volunteers with several community events including the Symphony and Sequim Lavender Festival.

“We are honored to present Dr. Stecker as LCC’s 2024 Alumnus of the Year. Ron’s remarkable research and contributions to the science of entomology is extraordinary,” noted LCC President Dr. Matt Seimears.

 

Dr. Stecker will be honored at this year’s “90^th Anniversary Celebration” on October 4, 2024. For more information about the LCC Foundation, LCC Alumni, or to join the LCC Foundation Alumni Association, visit lowercolumbia.edu/foundation.

 

For more information about the LCC Foundation, LCC Alumni or to join the LCC Foundation Alumni Association, visit lowercolumbia.edu/foundation.