Stevie Nicks Funds Otolaryngology Chair at USC to Honor Voice Specialist
Stevie Nicks donates 3m to medical – Iconic artist Stevie Nicks, renowned for her contributions to music, has made a substantial $3 million donation to the University of Southern California’s Keck School of Medicine. The gift is intended to establish an endowed chair in otolaryngology, a field dedicated to the study and treatment of disorders related to the ear, nose, and throat. This initiative honors Dr. Joseph Sugerman, a Beverly Hills-based ear, nose, and throat specialist who has played a critical role in maintaining Nicks’ vocal health throughout her extensive career.
According to the university, Nicks’ generous contribution has allowed the fundraising campaign for the endowed chair to meet its goal. Additional backing came from various foundations and individual supporters, who collaborated to ensure the program’s success. “I am deeply honored to have this opportunity to recognize Dr. Sugerman’s unwavering commitment to his patients,” Nicks said in a statement. “His expertise has been a lifeline for me, especially during the demanding years of touring and recording.”
Dr. Sugerman, a graduate of USC and a longtime faculty member at the institution, has spent nearly five decades in clinical practice. His career has focused on addressing the unique needs of singers and performers, a specialty that aligns closely with Nicks’ personal journey. The endowed chair, named the “Stevie Nicks and Joseph Sugerman, MD, Endowed Chair in Otolaryngology,” will serve as a tribute to his pioneering work in vocal medicine and his ability to balance the health of both patients and professionals.
“The chair is a meaningful way to celebrate his lifelong dedication to advancing voice care,” stated a university official. “Dr. Sugerman’s approach has not only transformed the way we treat vocal disorders but also inspired a new generation of specialists to prioritize the needs of artists.” Sugerman himself expressed gratitude for the recognition, noting, “I am deeply touched by the support of my patients and colleagues who have come together to create this legacy. It is a testament to the impact of dedicated care and the importance of voice health in the arts.”
Dr. Sugerman’s professional journey began with his training at USC, where he completed both his internship and residency. After establishing his Beverly Hills practice, he became known for his ability to treat high-profile clients, including Nicks and other musicians. His work has extended beyond individual care, as he has also contributed to USC’s otolaryngology department as an adjunct faculty member, sharing his insights with students and researchers.
USC has announced that the first individual to hold the endowed chair will be Dr. Michael M Johns, a leading figure in the university’s Voice Center. Johns, who is recognized as a global authority in professional voice care, has been instrumental in developing treatment protocols for patients with complex vocal issues. The Voice Center operates multiple clinics across Los Angeles, offering specialized services for conditions affecting speech, breathing, and swallowing. “Dr. Johns has consistently demonstrated excellence in both clinical practice and academic leadership,” said university officials. “His appointment ensures the chair will be used to drive innovation and excellence in the field.”
Nicks’ connection to USC dates back to 1979, when Fleetwood Mac invited the university’s marching band to participate in the recording of the album *Tusk* at Dodger Stadium. This early collaboration underscored her appreciation for the institution’s resources and community. In a 2020 interview with the *Guardian*, Nicks reflected on the importance of her voice to her identity as an artist. “Singing is more than a profession for me—it’s how I connect with audiences and express my creativity,” she explained. “The thought of losing that ability during the pandemic was terrifying.”
She expressed concern about the risks of contracting COVID-19, which could have jeopardized her vocal performance. “If I couldn’t sing anymore, it would feel like the end of everything,” Nicks said. “It’s not just about music; it’s about being able to share my passion with the world through every performance.” This sentiment highlights the deep bond between Nicks and her voice doctor, who has been a constant presence during her career’s most challenging moments.
The endowed chair will provide financial support for research, education, and patient care, ensuring that future generations of physicians can build on Sugerman’s legacy. The program also aims to foster partnerships between the medical community and the entertainment industry, addressing the unique demands of performers’ health. “This chair will serve as a bridge between clinical science and the arts,” said a spokesperson for USC. “It’s a rare opportunity to integrate specialized care with the broader context of professional performance.”
Dr. Sugerman’s influence on vocal medicine is evident in the programs he has helped develop. His expertise has been sought after by artists, actors, and public speakers who rely on their voices for livelihood. By supporting the endowed chair, Nicks is not only celebrating her personal journey but also contributing to a field that has long been underrepresented in medical education. “This donation will allow us to invest in research that directly benefits those who depend on their voices,” added the university official. “It’s a powerful way to honor Dr. Sugerman’s impact while expanding access to specialized care.”
The announcement of the endowed chair marks a significant milestone in the relationship between USC and Nicks. Her generosity reflects a long-standing commitment to the institution, which has been a part of her life since the 1970s. “I’ve always believed in the power of collaboration between art and science,” Nicks said. “Dr. Sugerman’s work has shown me how essential it is to have medical professionals who understand the unique needs of performers.”
As the first recipient, Dr. Johns will lead initiatives to advance vocal medicine, focusing on both diagnostic techniques and treatment strategies. The Voice Center, under his guidance, has already made strides in developing personalized care plans for patients with chronic voice conditions. “The endowed chair will enable us to explore new therapies and technologies that can help people like Stevie maintain their voices for years to come,” Johns said. “This is a dream come true for all of us involved.”
Nicks’ donation also highlights the growing awareness of the importance of voice health in modern medicine. By supporting this chair, she is helping to elevate the status of otolaryngology as a field that addresses the holistic needs of individuals in all aspects of life. “This is more than a gesture of gratitude—it’s an investment in the future of vocal care,” said a university representative. “Stevie’s vision ensures that this chair will remain a beacon of innovation and excellence for years to come.”
With the endowed chair now established, USC is poised to lead in the study and treatment of voice-related disorders. The program will serve as a platform for interdisciplinary collaboration, bringing together medical professionals, researchers, and artists to address the complexities of vocal health. “Stevie’s contribution is a reminder of how far we’ve come in understanding the connection between the body and the art of performance,” said Sugerman. “It’s a gift that will continue to inspire.”
