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Printer-Friendly ModeTheatre renamed in honor of local benefactor
February 6, 2006 —
SVSU's Performing Arts Theatre has been renamed The Malcolm Field Theatre for Performing Arts to honor local neurosurgeon and philanthropist Dr. E. Malcolm Field.
The change was made official on December 16 when the Board of Control passed a resolution to rename the Theatre. There will be a dedication ceremony before the end of this academic year.
"We have tried to name places around the campus after individuals who have distinguished themselves," President Eric R. Gilbertson said. "Dr. Field has distinguished himself both in his professional field and by showing great commitment towards the University."
Field is a nationally renowned neurosurgeon who currently leads St. Mary's of Michigan's Neuroscience Center. The center is affiliated with the Field Neurosciences Institute, which Field co-founded in 1988 with his three brothers. He is also a staff member at numerous other hospitals in central Michigan.
In 1999 he received the Spirit of St. Vincent de Paul Award presented by St. Mary's Hospital for his dedication to those less fortunate. The namesake of the prestigious award is the patron saint of all good works of charity.
"There isn't anything more important in a person's life than education," Field said. "SVSU is one of the institutions I support because it has the ability not only to bring about higher intellectual stability, but also economic stability. SVSU brings a group of learners to the area that often ends up staying when they are offered jobs."
On August 31, 2005, SVSU received a $3 million pledge from Field.
"This is presently the largest single gift of a private donor," Gilbertson said.
It will be used to endow the E. Malcolm Field Endowed Chair in Health Sciences and the Clifford Spicer Endowed Chair in Engineering.
"Universities need specialty chairs in certain departments," Field said. "These chairs strengthen the image and longevity of the University."
The positions have yet to be posted, but it is expected that they will be filled by July 1, 2008. The chairs will both have a three- to five-year renewable term, and will teach classes during the academic year while serving as the head of each corresponding educational department.
Field is additionally a member of the SVSU Foundation Board, an advisory board responsible for attaining and distributing available funds throughout the University.
During the May 6, 2000 Commencement, Field was presented an Honorary Doctor of Science degree for his excellence in the Medical Arts field and his devotion to SVSU. The Board of Control unanimously approved the granting of the degree to Field.
He also helped establish the James E. O'Neill Jr. Memorial Lecture Series in 2003. The series is intended to promote the importance of neurosciences and education.
"It seems like our country has trouble stimulating people to have an interest in math and science," Field said. "This is unfortunate because all areas of education must be supported."