Conductor Louis Lohraseb, director Kaneza Schaal, and administrator Patricia McLeod have been acknowledged for their notable contributions to the company by being named as the recipients of the 2024 Eva and Marc Stern Artist Award by LA Opera. Established four years ago by Eva and Marc Stern, dedicated supporters of the opera, this annual award recognizes exceptionally talented artists who have significantly enhanced the company's artistic reputation. This year, in a departure from tradition, the award has been extended to include administrators, with Patricia McLeod, LA Opera's Senior Director of Development, being the inaugural recipient in this category. The $75,000 prize will be divided among the three awardees.

Marc Stern, who has played a pivotal role in attracting influential artists to Los Angeles, including serving as Chairman of the company's board of directors, expressed his and Eva's deep appreciation for the remarkable artists who have graced the theater over the years. He emphasized that the award is a testament to their significance to both the company and the community. While traditionally bestowed upon artists, Marc Stern highlighted Patricia McLeod's innovative and dedicated efforts in creating and maintaining an environment conducive to artistic expression on the stage. The Stern Artist Award, initiated in 2021, has previously honored renowned figures such as Angel Blue, Plácido Domingo, and Renée Fleming, among others.