The year is 1880 –James A. Garfield becomes the 20th President of the United States, Thomas Edison performs the first test of his electric railway, and the University of Southern California opens its doors to 53 students and 10 faculty members.
Today I am thrilled to announce that our university is opening its doors once again—this time, to our Faculty Hall. The room, located inside Doheny Memorial Library, is designed to honor our phenomenal faculty. From 1880 to the present, our faculty members — including scientists, physicians, artists, writers, teachers, and more — have defined academic excellence. They have honored our university and contributed to the world over with National Academy memberships, MacArthur Fellowships, National Medals, and Nobel Prizes.
Inside our Faculty Hall, there are video displays and stationary exhibits that will highlight our faculty members’ legendary leadership in science, civil rights, and innovation. There will also be a rotating sampling of faculty books from our archives and touchscreens that will link to halls of fame for each school. We encourage everyone including prospective students, faculty recruits, and other visitors to enjoy this historic space located in DML Room 121. But most importantly, USC faculty members: remember , this is your room so please use and enjoy it whether it be for a reading, lecture, or even a special event.
Also, I want to sincerely thank all the faculty and deans for their suggestions in preparation of the hall exhibits and the Honorary Degrees Committee and Academic Senate for reviewing the lists of faculty to be recognized at this time.
In addition, I want to thank Vice Provost Marty Levine for overseeing this project from the beginning, university archivist Claude Zachary for his invaluable assistance, and Davina Wolter, of the Iovine & Young Academy faculty, for her expert design. I would also like to extend my sincerest gratitude to Dean Catherine Quilan and the USC Libraries for making the space available.
Once again, I am delighted to announce the opening of the Faculty Hall that will act as a living museum to be updated as our university grows in diversity and distinction. I hope you treasure this hall as a space where we can honor the achievements of our colleagues today and for years to come.
Michael W. Quick, April 26, 2019