Noteworthy: The Thomas Merton Center is honoring Stevens Tuesday night as the organization’s New Person of 2016 for his dedication to social justice and civil rights activism. The award recognizes local leaders of peace and social justice.

Age: 71

Residence: Pittsburgh

Family: Wife, Jennifer; son, Marcus

Education: Stevens graduated from Schenley High School, and he received a bachelor’s degree in political science and minor in sociology from the University of Pittsburgh. Stevens received his master’s degree in urban and regional planning from the University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public and International Affairs.

Background: Stevens served as president of the NAACP Pittsburgh branch from 1994-2004. He also helped to establish the Black Political Empowerment Project (B-PEP, seated in the Hill District) in 1986, of which he is the current CEO and chairman. The goal of B-PEP is to empower African Americans to vote in any and all elections. Stevens has also made it his goal to address police brutality, lack of opportunity for African Americans and struggles of marginalized communities.

Quote: “I’ve been blessed to create initiatives that can advance and help the world long after I’m gone. I view this award as an opportunity to go out and earn it, so my work is far from done.”

— Phillip Poupore

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