Richard Stermer, a pivotal figure for the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, is retiring after decades of dedicated service.
For members of the Academy based in Los Angeles, this news carries significant weight. Stermer has been an unwavering presence since 1994 at the esteemed 1,000-seat Samuel Goldwyn Theater, located within the Academy’s Beverly Hills headquarters. He began as deputy theater manager, then advanced to theater manager, and most recently, as senior theater manager since January. In this capacity, he oversaw everything from weekend member screenings and early-morning Oscar nominations announcements to premiere events hosted by studios utilizing the venue.
Beyond his managerial duties, Stermer, who is also a part-time actor, songwriter, composer, and voice artist, has occasionally lent his vocal talents to Academy events. This includes making voiceover declarations at the bustling Oscar nominations gatherings, attended by hundreds of journalists and publicists, as well as at Oscar Nominee Luncheons and Sci-Tech programs.
Stermer’s tenure followed that of Robert Rigamonti, his predecessor as the Academy’s theater manager. Rigamonti passed away suddenly in 2013, leading to Stermer’s promotion.
Ric Robertson, who served as the Academy’s executive administrator from 1989 to 2011 and COO from 2011 to 2013, shared his appreciation for Stermer. “Richard’s amazing. He’s an excellent manager, well-organized, and always on top of things,” Robertson stated. “I would go to screenings and watch him, prior to the film, walk up and down the aisles of the Goldwyn greeting people and asking them about their kids or grandkids. I like to call him the Mayor of the Goldwyn. He was the ultimate host, always friendly and making people feel welcome. It was really remarkable.”
In a characteristic display of modesty, Stermer chose not to comment on his retirement.
