By Suzanne Lane, President/Founder, the Lane Communications Group
Stephen W. Clark, 81, passed away on September 8, 2024. He served as the President of Galderma Laboratories from 1985-2001, making it one of the most successful dermatology companies in the world by acquiring, developing, and launching notable products such as MetroGel, Differen Triluma, Desowen, Benzac. and the Cetaphil product line, among others. In 2003, after retiring from Galderma, Mr. Clark became the President of Coria Laboratories, which was a launchpad for CeraVe skincare.
He spent 34 years with Galderma Laboratories and Alcon Laboratories and was inducted into Alcon’s distinguished Hall of Fame. Mr. Clark is a recipient of the Distinguished Service Award from the American Academy of Dermatology, an honor that, at the time, had been awarded to only one other individual from industry. Also, at the time, he was the only individual from industry who was chosen as an Honorary Member of the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). His passing is a true loss to the dermatology world, as his contributions helped treat millions of people with skin diseases.
In 2011, Mr. Clark co-founded and served as President and CEO of Clark Pharmaceuticals, where he launched and sold several more over-the-counter dermatology products.
Finally, he loved his family and cherished his many long-term friendships. He believed in the goodness of people, took chances on them, and treated others with love, kindness, and respect. He was hard-working, honest, dedicated, loyal, driven, funny, optimistic, kind, thoughtful, and a great listener. He will be missed.
In lieu of a memorial/funeral service, the family asks you to reflect on Steve’s life. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to AAD/Camp Discovery. Camp Discovery offers children living with chronic skin conditions a one-of-a-kind camp experience.
