Stevie Nicks has made a major gift to help establish a $3 million endowed chair in otolaryngology at the Keck School of Medicine of USC, university officials announced on Thursday.
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The newly created Stevie Nicks and Joseph Sugerman, MD, Endowed Chair in Otolaryngology honors Beverly Hills ear, nose and throat specialist Dr. Joseph Sugerman, a USC alumnus and longtime faculty member who has treated performers and other patients for nearly five decades, according to the university.
Nicks’ contribution completed fundraising for the endowed chair, which was also supported by donations from several foundations and individual donors, officials said.
“Through late nights on the road, years of touring, hours in the recording studio, I always knew I could count on Dr. Sugerman to be there to help keep my voice healthy, just as he does for his other patients,” Nicks said in a statement. “I am thrilled to have this opportunity to acknowledge his talent and insights and mark his many years of outstanding practice.”
Nicks, 78, is known for her solo career and as a member of Fleetwood Mac, which has sold more than 120 million records worldwide. Her solo hits include “Edge of Seventeen,” “Stand Back” and “Rooms on Fire.”
University officials said the inaugural holder of the chair will be Dr. Michael M. Johns, director of the USC Voice Center. The center focuses on treatment of voice, swallowing and airway disorders and operates clinics throughout the Los Angeles area.
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John S. Oghalai, chair of the USC Caruso Department of Otolaryngology — Head and Neck Surgery, said the endowed chair recognizes Sugerman’s contributions to patients, medical trainees and the field of otolaryngology.
Sugerman completed his internship and residency training at USC and later joined a Beverly Hills otolaryngology practice known for treating professional singers and entertainers, officials said. He has also served as an adjunct faculty member in USC’s otolaryngology department.
“I am touched and humbled by the support of my patients who have extended themselves to create this endowed chair, which will be dedicated to advancing vocal medicine,” Sugerman said.
Nicks’ relationship with USC dates to 1979, when Fleetwood Mac invited the USC Trojan Marching Band to perform on the title track of the band’s album “Tusk” and later join the group on tour.
USC officials said income generated by the endowed chair will support research, education and patient care related to vocal medicine and disorders affecting the ear, nose and throat.
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