A. Stephen Weithman - His Legacy Remembered

Dr. A. Stephen Weithman Jr. showed himself to be a leader throughout his career, a legacy that continues through the AFS Missouri Chapter’s A. Stephen Weithman Jr. Leadership Award and the AFS Socioeconomic Section’s Best Student Presentation Award, named after him as well.  Steve passed away too soon in life on July 13, 2000 at age 47 from pancreatic cancer.  "As professionals, we should strive to accomplish even a portion of what Stephen has done," said Bill Turner, Missouri Chapter President at the time.  Steve served two terms as president of MO-AFS.  Among his many other professional accomplishments he authored over a dozen peer-reviewed publications ranging from telephone and creel surveys methodologies; methods to evaluate fishing quality; socioeconomic values of a trout fishery, reservoir fisheries, and stocking fish to name a few.  Additionally, he was a founding member of the AFS Socioeconomic Section.  Most importantly, he stood firm in his convictions to protect the aquatic resources of the State of Missouri.  His leadership efforts were notable not only for their positive outcomes, but are remembered for the professional and caring manner in which they were delivered.  Steve’s legacy will be highlighted to set the stage for this symposium.