Stevie Nicks donates $3m to medical school to recognize her voice doctor | Stevie Nicks

Stevie Nicks has donated $3 million to the University of Southern California’s Keck School of Medicine to establish an endowed chair in otolaryngology. According to university officials, the gift honors Dr. Joseph Sugerman, a Beverly Hills ear, nose, and throat specialist who has helped maintain Nicks’ voice throughout her career. The donation allowed the fundraising effort for the position to reach its target, with additional support provided by individual contributors and various foundations.

Why did Stevie Nicks donate to the Keck School of Medicine?

The gift creates the Stevie Nicks and Joseph Sugerman, MD, Endowed Chair in Otolaryngology. Nicks intended the donation to recognize Dr. Sugerman’s nearly 50 years of practice and his specific insights into vocal health.

Nicks stated that she could always count on Dr. Sugerman to keep her voice healthy during years of touring, recording studio sessions, and late nights on the road. She expressed a desire to acknowledge his talent and outstanding practice through this contribution.

What is the significance of vocal medicine for the singer?

For Nicks, the ability to sing is inextricably linked to her identity and career. In a 2020 interview with the Guardian, the Grammy winner described the prospect of stopping singing as something that “would kill” her.

She previously shared fears that contracting Covid-19 could damage her vocals, noting that losing her voice would mean she could no longer perform or dance across global stages. This underscores why the endowed chair’s focus on advancing vocal medicine is significant.

Who will lead the new endowed chair and what happens next?

USC announced that Dr. Michael M. Johns will be the first recipient of the endowed chair. Dr. Johns leads the USC Voice Center and is described by the university as a world-class expert in professional voice care.

The center currently operates clinics across the Los Angeles area, treating patients with swallowing, airway, and voice disorders. This new funding may allow the center to further advance its research and treatment of professional voices.

Future developments could include expanded capabilities for the USC Voice Center. The endowed chair is likely to support continued academic and clinical excellence in otolaryngology, potentially benefiting a wider range of patients beyond the entertainment industry.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much did Stevie Nicks donate to USC?
Stevie Nicks gave $3 million to the University of Southern California’s medical school.

Who is Dr. Joseph Sugerman?
Dr. Sugerman is a Beverly Hills ear, nose, and throat specialist, a USC graduate, and a longtime faculty member who has been in practice for nearly 50 years.

What does the USC Voice Center provide?
The center provides care for patients suffering from voice, airway, and swallowing disorders through clinics located across the Los Angeles area.

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