Faculty Senate Honors Fallen Members, Celebrates Family Weekend

URGENT UPDATE: The Faculty Senate at Stanford University held a significant meeting on March 5, 2023, where it honored the legacies of several esteemed faculty members who have passed away and celebrated the contributions of those who organized the recent Family Weekend.

During the meeting, the Senate delivered a heartfelt memorial resolution recognizing the accomplishments of three distinguished faculty members. Walter Falcon, a former deputy director of the Center on Food Security and the Environment and former director of the Freeman Spogli Institute for International Studies, was honored posthumously at the age of 86. Faculty member Rosamond “Roz” Naylor presented the resolution, highlighting Falcon’s profound impact on food security research.

The Senate also recognized Alven Hackel, a professor emeritus of anesthesiology and pediatrics, who died at 91. Hackel was instrumental in advancing pediatric anesthesiology, notably inventing a transport incubator for newborns. His contributions have significantly improved the care of infants and children during surgical procedures, according to Erin Digitale, author of his obituary.

Additionally, the Faculty Senate paid tribute to Lyman Van Slyke, a pioneering scholar of 20th-century Chinese history, who passed away at 94. Senate members acknowledged Van Slyke’s ongoing contributions to Stanford through teaching and engagement, reflecting his lasting legacy within the academic community.

In a separate but notable development, a proposal to reinstate land acknowledgment within the Senate was introduced but ultimately dismissed. Faculty Senate chair Anna Grymala-Busse stated, “The topic does not fall under the jurisdiction of the Faculty Senate,” indicating the complexities surrounding institutional acknowledgment.

University president Jonathan Levin praised the success of the recent Family Weekend during his report, thanking key organizers, including Vice Provost Jay Hamilton. His remarks underscored the importance of family engagement in university life, reflecting a deep commitment to community.

While Provost Jenny Martinez offered to take questions during the meeting, none were raised, leaving an air of reflection on the day’s proceedings. Notably, ASSU president Ava Brown and Vice President Will Birreman were absent from the discussions, raising questions about student representation in faculty matters.

This meeting not only honored lost faculty members but also highlighted the ongoing commitment of the Stanford Faculty Senate to address pressing issues within the academic community. As the university moves forward, the impact of these discussions will resonate within the Stanford community and beyond.

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story and its implications for Stanford University.