Honoring Sidney Harman

USC Davis School students, staff and faculty remember a great friend and inspiration
By Jonathan Riggs

Sidney Harman

The impossible happened April 12: Sidney Harman died.

The 92-year-old dynamo who conquered the business world as a self-made multimillionaire seemed unstoppable to everyone lucky enough to meet him. Named USC's first Judge Widney Professor of Business, Harman became a special friend of all Trojans, and especially of the USC Davis School, where he inspired many students. Not just an outstanding example of successful aging, Harman was a ferociously funny, intelligent and vibrant personality who made it impossible to forget him.

"Each time Sidney spoke to our School, the audience, especially the students, were enthralled," said USC Davis School Dean Gerald C. Davison. "His dynamism, intellectual breadth and sense of humor made it a treat to listen to and interact with him. He was a force of nature and will be missed."

His impact on the students of the USC Davis School proved especially far-reaching.

"It was always exciting to hear him speak. Sidney Harman was so passionate, embodying all the things we are looking to accomplish at this School," said Student Gerontology Association president Whitney Fountas. "He was full of such zest, with the energetic personality of youth and the impressive wisdom of age all at once. He lived a full life all the way."

In fact, students still fondly remember Harman's unforgettable 2008 talk at the School, where, in between zingers, he discussed his philosophy that life begins at 90.

"My own longevity and that of others I know emits from an erotic love affair with life. The vast majority of people wake up somehow determined to get through the day. This is not a stimulating prospect," Harman said. "I believe the way to get out of bed is with a leap and to hold the conviction that each day is going to be the greatest day of my life."

Daily Beast Article

Sidney Harman Lecture at the USC Davis School of Gerontology

Sidney Harman USC Davis School Lecture Article

New York Times Article