On August 26, 2002 Steve Austin, our Board member, died at the age of 60, from the effects of a brain tumor. He was dynamic and enthusiastic in his work on the Society’s legal and financial committees and was instrumental in the development of the NYSGS website.

Steve was senior counsel for the international law firm of Fulbright & Jaworski, L. L. P. where he was not only highly respected for his extraordinary mind, but also played the role of mentor to many of the younger attorneys. As one partner said, "He was my lawyer." Early in his career, he served as a trial attorney for the Civil Rights Division of the U. S. Department of Justice in Washington, D.C. Because he was such a kind and gentle man, people often asked him, "How did you ever become a lawyer?" His response was always the same, "Two words: Full Scholarship!"

All of us who knew and loved Steve knew that his first love, pride and joy, and top priority were his daughters: Amy 13, Chloe 11, and Olivia 9. We share in their grief.

His many friends and colleagues will miss his incredible humor and charm, as well as his enthusiasm for and wide-ranging knowledge of GS.