July 25, 2025

ArtCenter Remembers Trustee Emeritus Frederick M. Nicholas

IN MEMORIAM

ArtCenter Remembers Trustee Emeritus Frederick M. Nicholas
Visionary Leader Helped Lay the Foundation for the College’s South Campus

ArtCenter College of Design mourns the passing of Trustee Emeritus Frederick M. Nicholas, who died on June 28, 2025, at the age of 105. A decorated war hero, attorney, developer, civic leader, philanthropist and advocate for the arts, Nicholas served on ArtCenter’s Board of Trustees as an Honorary Trustee from 2001 to 2004. He was then elected as a Trustee from 2004 to 2009 and was named Trustee Emeritus in 2009.

“Fred left an indelible mark on Los Angeles and brought his wisdom and passion for art and design to ArtCenter and its mission,” said Karen Hofmann, president and CEO of ArtCenter. “His role in establishing our South Campus was a transformational moment in our history, and his legacy lives on at the College.”

A longtime ArtCenter supporter and champion, Nicholas was instrumental in negotiating the acquisition of the building at 950 South Raymond Avenue in Pasadena, marking the beginning of the College’s South Campus. Today, the building is a hub for creativity, housing the Mullin Transportation Design Center, the Hoffmitz Milken Center for Typography, classrooms, as well as galleries and public spaces that further the College’s commitment to education, innovation and community.

“Fred was just a beautiful, warm person and a good friend. Our mutual love of creativity and the arts was bonding,” recalls ArtCenter Trustee Emeritus Alyce de Roulet Williamson. “I was touched by his tremendous support for The Williamson Gallery. Despite his accomplishments, he was a humble man, and he will be missed.”

Nicholas had a remarkable career as a developer and legal counselor, shaping major civic and cultural projects in Los Angeles. In addition to his work as an ArtCenter trustee, he served on numerous boards including the Frederick R. Weisman Art Foundation, the American Federation of the Arts, and the Los Angeles Philharmonic Association, to name a few. In addition, he served as a principal advisor to the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art and the Santa Monica Museum. Known as “Mr. Downtown Culture,” he was instrumental in the development and construction of the Museum of Contemporary Art’s two downtown Los Angeles facilities, including MOCA’s Grand Avenue building and The Geffen Contemporary. He was also the first Chairman of the Walt Disney Concert Hall Committee, where he guided the development of the landmark building project, including the selection of architect Frank Gehry and acoustician Dr. Minoru Nagata.

As part of a legal career spanning six decades, he founded Public Counsel, the largest pro-bono law firm in the country, committed to providing free legal assistance to those in need and vulnerable populations. Each year, the organization serves more than 12,000 individuals, small businesses and nonprofit organizations. Nicholas believed that access to justice was a fundamental right, not a privilege, and worked tirelessly to uphold that belief.

Throughout his life, Nicholas was a guiding force in the art world. He provided legal representation for numerous galleries and artists and was an avid collector, acquiring works by iconic American painters, such as Warhol, Stella and Rauschenberg. He also served as the administrator of the Sam Francis estate, facilitating a milestone solo retrospective in memoriam, which traveled internationally.

In addition to his transformative civic and cultural work, Nicholas was a generous philanthropist, supporting numerous organizations throughout Southern California, including ArtCenter. His belief in the power of art, design and public service has made a lasting impact on students, artists and the broader community.

Nicholas’ life of service started in the U.S. military, serving during World War II in North Africa, Sicily, Italy, Southern France and the Philippines. He served as a platoon leader, company commander and ended his service as a captain. He was awarded the Bronze Star and Purple Heart for bravery during his service.

Fueled by his kindness, generosity and compassion, Nicholas leaves behind a better Los Angeles and a better world. He is an inspiration to us all and will be missed.

Nicholas is survived by his children, Deborah, Jan and Anthony; his daughter-in-law, Mona; six grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind his beloved sister, Helen Devor.

ArtCenter extends its deepest condolences to the Nicholas family.

To learn more about his life and legacy, please visit frederickmnicholas.com.

# # #