Remembrance: alumnus Mo Ostin, age 95, a legendary figure in the music industry and a dedicated philanthropist
In a career spanning over half a century, Morris "Mo" Ostin, a legendary figure in the music industry, left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. While his direct impact on UCLA's academic or athletic programs may not be immediately apparent, his contributions to the university and the wider community are significant.
Mo Ostin's most notable achievement was his role as the manager of Reprise Records, a sub-label of Warner Bros. Records. In 1963, Reprise Records underwent a "rescue takeover" that allowed Frank Sinatra to retain creative control and brought Ostin into Warner Bros., where he continued to shape the music industry with his visionary leadership.
As a leader at Warner Bros. Records, Ostin played a crucial role in shaping the careers of numerous artists and overseeing the development of successful music initiatives. His tenure at Warner Bros. was marked by significant success in fostering talent and guiding the company's growth.
In the realm of education, Mo Ostin's impact was felt indirectly. He did not contribute directly to any institution's school of music or athletics, but his focus was primarily on the commercial music industry. However, in 2015, Ostin's $10 million gift led to the construction of the Mo Ostin Basketball Center adjacent to Pauley Pavilion, which serves as the home of the men's and women's Bruin basketball programs at UCLA.
Ostin's connection to UCLA extended beyond the basketball court. He was a passionate supporter of the university and served as co-chairs of the fundraising gala "Royce Hall Encore - Celebrate the Return" in 1998. Additionally, he served on the boards of visitors for the UCLA School of the Arts and Architecture and the UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music.
Mo Ostin's legacy at UCLA is also evident in the Evelyn and Mo Ostin Music Center, which opened in 2014, providing students and faculty with access to state-of-the-art music industry tools. His son, Michael, serves on the dean's board of advisors for the UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music.
The Ostins were also founders of the UCLA Film & Television Archive council and supported the UCLA Lab School and the Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center. Furthermore, Mo Ostin was a supporter of the UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music's Music Partnership Program.
In recognition of his contributions, Mo Ostin was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2003 and named UCLA's Edward A. Dickson Alumnus of the Year in 2019. Despite his passing on July 31, 2021, at the age of 95, Ostin's impact on UCLA and the music industry continues to be felt.
The Ostin Endowment Fund, established by Mo Ostin, aims to attract and retain high-calibre performing arts students from around the world, ensuring that his legacy lives on in the next generation of artists, scholars, and industry leaders.
Mo Ostin's legacy extended beyond the music industry into education and self-development, as evidenced by his establishment of the Ostin Endowment Fund to attract and retain high-calibre performing arts students. Moreover, his $10 million gift led to the construction of the Mo Ostin Basketball Center at UCLA, demonstrating his support for entertainment and the university's athletic programs.
