Stermer, who has been a familiar face at the 1,000-seat Samuel Goldwyn Theater since 1994, is retiring.His tenure saw him rise from deputy theater manager to theater manager, and most recently, senior theater manager. In this capacity, he oversaw a wide array of events, from regular member screenings and early-morning Oscar nominations announcements to high-profile studio premieres held at the Academy’s Beverly Hills headquarters.

Beyond his managerial duties, Stermer, also a part-time actor, songwriter, composer, and voice artist, lent his vocal talents to various Academy functions. These included the bustling Oscar nominations gatherings, attended by hundreds of media representatives and publicists, and also the prestigious Oscar Nominee Luncheons and Sci-tech programs.

Stermer’s career at the Academy began under his predecessor, Robert Rigamonti, who managed the theater until his sudden passing in 2013. Following Rigamonti’s death, stermer was promoted to the role of theater manager.

Ric Robertson, who served the Academy as executive administrator from 1989 to 2011 and later as COO until 2013, lauded Stermer’s contributions. “Richard’s amazing,” Robertson stated. “He’s an excellent manager, well-organized, and always on top of things. 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 thier 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 his humble nature,Stermer declined to comment on his retirement.