Stevie Nicks Donates $3M to Medical School in Recognition of the Doctor Who Treated Her Voice

Photo Credit: Stevie Nicks by Larry Richman / CC by 2.0

Stevie Nicks has donated $3 million to the University of Southern California’s medical school to recognize the doctor who helped care for her voice.

The incomparable Stevie Nicks has donated $3 million to the University of Southern California’s medical school in recognition of the doctor who has helped care for her voice throughout her career. The donation supports the creation of an endowed chair in otolaryngology at USC’s Keck School of Medicine in honor of Dr. Joseph Sugarman, an ear, nose, and throat specialist from Beverly Hills.

Named the Stevie Nicks and Joseph Sugarman MD Endowed Chair in Otolaryngology, the position recognizes Dr. Sugarman’s career in the field. The physician, a graduate of USC and a longtime member of its faculty, has spent nearly 50 years in practice.

University officials said the gift enabled the fundraising effort for the endowed chair to reach its target, with additional support from several individual contributors and foundations.

“Through late nights on the road, years of touring, hours in the recording studio, I always knew I could count on Dr. Sugarman to be there to help keep my voice healthy, just as he does for his other patients,” said the 78-year-old Nicks. “I am thrilled to have this opportunity to acknowledge his talent and insights and mark his many years of outstanding practice.”

“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,” said Sugarman.

Following the completion of his internship and residency at USC, Sugarman joined a Beverly Hills otolaryngology practice that became known for its treatment of singers and other entertainers. Sugarman has also held an adjunct faculty role within USC’s otolaryngology department.

The first recipient of the endowed chair will be Dr. Michael M. Johns, who leads the USC Voice Center and is regarded by the university as “a world-class expert in professional voice care.” The center operates clinics across the Los Angeles area and provides care for patients with voice, airway, and swallowing disorders.

Stevie Nicks’ relationship with USC began in 1979 when Fleetwood Mac invited the university’s marching band to take part in the recording of “Tusk” at Dodger Stadium.