Dr. Stephen “Steve” Reynolds, professor in the Department of Environmental and Radiological Health Sciences, passed away on January 31, 2024. Reynolds was a national leader in Industrial Hygiene and Occupational Health focused on agricultural workers. He served as Director of the High Plains Intermountain Center for Agricultural Health and Safety (HICAHS) from 2001-2023 and Co-Founder and Deputy Director of the Mountains and Plains Education and Research Center (MAP ERC) from 2007-2022. He also held a faculty position in the Department of Environmental and Occupational Health of the Colorado School of Public Health.

Reynolds was recently named a Journal of Agromedicine “Leader in the Field” for 2024, and Lorann Stallones, current director of the High Plains Intermountain Center for Agricultural Safety and Health and Professor in the Department of Psychology, wrote of his impact:

“In addition to being well known for his dedication to improving the health and safety of agricultural workers, Reynolds is a humble leader and caring friend, husband and father, mentor, and colleague…However, it is not solely the breadth of his work that distinguishes Reynolds. Renowned for his humility, he is a leader who quietly inspires, setting an example that resonates with emerging leaders in the field. His mentorship of graduate students and academics in occupational health is characterized by a profound commitment to nurturing talent and fostering innovative thinking.”

Read the full award description and career highlights: Journal of Agromedicine “Leader in the Field” 2024: Stephen Reynolds

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Reynolds’ impact and legacy reaches deep into the occupational safety and health field, and his loss is experienced by many. Please share your memories of him using this online form. Memories will be compiled and shared with his family.

A celebration of Reynolds’ life is being planned for later in 2024. Details will be shared according to his family’s wishes as they become available.