Clayton Stephenson '24 Harvard/NEC, '25 GD Awarded Sphinx Medal of Excellence

Clayton Stephenson '24 Harvard/NEC, '25 GD has been named a recipient of the 2025 Sphinx Medal of Excellence, the highest honor awarded by the Sphinx Organization. The medal recognizes early-career artists who demonstrate exceptional artistry, leadership, and a commitment to transforming lives while addressing systemic barriers within Black and Latino communities.

On April 2, 2025, Stephenson was honored alongside soprano Gabriella Reyes and violinist/composer Curtis Stewart. Known for his "expressive power, charismatic stage presence, and extraordinary narrative and poetic gifts”, Stephenson’s career reflects both artistic excellence and a dedication to community.

A New York City native, Stephenson credits local music programs and mentors for shaping his early growth as a musician, including Juilliard’s Music Advancement and Pre-College Programs, the 3rd Street Music School, and the Lang Lang Foundation. From humble beginnings practicing on a discarded upright piano to performances on international stages, his journey speaks to the power of perseverance and opportunity. Stephenson’s career highlights include appearances with the Calgary Philharmonic, Chicago Sinfonietta, and the Fort Worth, Louisville, Lansing, and North Carolina Symphony Orchestras, as well as solo recitals at venues from Paris to Carnegie Hall. Among his many accolades, he was the first Black finalist at the 2022 Van Cliburn International Piano Competition, a 2022 Gilmore Young Artist, and a U.S. Presidential Scholar in the Arts.

Stephenson has completed the Harvard-NEC Dual Degree Program, earning a bachelor’s degree in Economics at Harvard and a master’s degree in Piano Performance at NEC under Wha Kyung Byun '74 MM. He is continuing his studies at NEC pursuing a Graduate Diploma in Piano Performance.

Please join us in congratulating Clayton Stephenson on this prestigious honor!