Faculty Senate Honors Late Members, Celebrates Family Weekend Efforts

URGENT UPDATE: The Stanford Faculty Senate convened on March 5, 2023, to honor the legacies of distinguished late faculty members and recognize the dedicated organizers of Family Weekend. This momentous meeting highlighted the profound impact these individuals had on the university community.

During the session, the Senate delivered a heartfelt memorial resolution for Walter Falcon, who passed away at the age of 86. Falcon was a prominent figure, serving as the former deputy director of the Center on Food Security and the Environment and the Freeman Spogli Institute for International Studies. Rosamond “Roz” Naylor, the William Wrigley Professor in the Stanford Doerr School of Sustainability, presented the resolution, celebrating Falcon’s contributions to global food security.

The Senate also remembered Alven Hackel, a professor emeritus of anesthesiology and pediatrics, who died at 91. Hackel was a pioneer in pediatric anesthesiology, known for inventing a transport incubator for newborns and significantly improving surgical care for infants and children. His legacy in medical advancements continues to resonate within the community, as noted by Erin Digitale, the author of his obituary.

Additionally, the Senate honored Lyman Van Slyke, a notable scholar of 20th-century Chinese history, who passed away at 94. Van Slyke remained an active contributor to the university, engaging in teaching and other scholarly activities until his last days, reflecting a lifelong commitment to education.

In a significant development, a new resolution was introduced to reinstate land acknowledgement within the Senate. However, Faculty Senate chair Anna Grymala-Busse stated, “The topic does not fall under the jurisdiction of the Faculty Senate,” effectively dismissing the proposal.

University President Jonathan Levin took the opportunity to commend the organizers behind the “wonderful Parent’s Weekend,” acknowledging their hard work and dedication. He expressed gratitude to various members involved, including Vice Provost Jay Hamilton.

In a brief update, Provost Jenny Martinez offered to answer questions, but none were forthcoming from the Senate members. Notably, ASSU President Ava Brown and Vice President Will Birreman were absent from the proceedings.

As the Faculty Senate reflects on the legacies of its late members and the contributions of those who organized Family Weekend, the university community is reminded of the enduring impact of these individuals on Stanford’s mission and values.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.