LOS ANGELES — Stevie Nicks donated $3 million to the University of Southern California's Keck School of Medicine. The donation establishes the Stevie Nicks and Joseph Sugerman, MD, Endowed Chair in Otolaryngology. Dr. Joseph Sugerman is a Beverly Hills otolaryngologist who has treated performers and other patients for nearly 50 years.
The singer-songwriter's donation completed the fundraising for the endowed chair. Foundations and individual donors provided additional financial support. "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. "I am thrilled to have this opportunity to acknowledge his talent and insights and mark his many years of outstanding practice," Nicks said.
"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. Sugerman completed his medical internship and residency at USC. He has also served as an adjunct faculty member within the university's otolaryngology department.
Dr. Michael M. Johns will serve as the first holder of the endowed chair. Johns directs the USC Voice Center, which provides treatment for voice, airway, and swallowing disorders. The center operates clinics across Los Angeles. Income generated by the endowed chair will support research, education, and patient care for vocal medicine and ear, nose, and throat disorders.