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From the Office of the President, Daniele C. Struppa, Ph.D.
It is with a heavy heart that I share the news of the passing of Janet Hilbert, beloved wife of Trustee Mark Hilbert, who, together with her husband, founded the Hilbert Museum of California Art. Jan passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her loving family at the age of 83, leaving behind a profound legacy that has deeply touched our university and the broader community.
Jan was a remarkable individual whose passion for the arts and education left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her dedication to fostering creativity and learning was evident through her career as a Professor of Business at Santa Ana College, where she inspired countless students over her 36 years of service after earning her master’s degree from USC. Beyond her professional achievements, Jan was known for her effervescent aura which could be felt whenever she entered a room. Jan’s warmth, generosity, and unwavering commitment to the values she held dear will always remain inspiring and uplifting to us all. The Hilbert family's relationship with Chapman University began with a shared commitment to bringing attention to the rich history of the California Scene Painting movement and to making art accessible to all.
Their passion for collecting scene paintings began when Jan first observed that while landscapes can be beautiful, she was more interested in art that featured people and therefore told a story. Since collecting their first California Scene paintings in 1992, Mark and Jan Hilbert built one of the most comprehensive collections of Californian art in the world. This collection, rich with scenes of California's past, became a treasured resource for our students, faculty and the public when the Hilbert Museum of California Art first opened its doors in 2016. Each year, tens of thousands of visitors enjoy and learn from the museum’s exhibitions, tours, lectures, and events. This museum stands as a testament to the Hilberts' dedication to preserving and sharing the cultural heritage of California.
Jan’s legacy at Chapman is one of boundless generosity and a deep belief in the power of art to educate and inspire. The Hilberts’ commitment to enriching the cultural and educational landscape of our campus and Orange County as a whole brought about the recently unveiled expansion of the Hilbert Museum. The museum, which grew through Jan and Mark’s vision from its original 7,000 square feet to 22,000 square feet, is a monument to the rich artistic traditions of California, a sanctuary where students and the public can engage with the art that Jan held dear. The two buildings are joined by the beautiful Janet Hilbert Arts Courtyard, where a singular live oak tree serves as both the spoke upon which the museum turns and an expression of Jan’s enduring love for this place and its landscape.
As we mourn the loss of Jan Hilbert, we are reminded of the special relationships she nurtured within our community. Her kindness, passion and dedication have left a lasting impact on all of us. Jan was a beacon of light whose love for art and education will continue to inspire and bring joy to all who walk through the galleries of the Hilbert Museum. In honor of her memory, let us continue to celebrate the arts and the educational values she so passionately championed. Her legacy will forever be a part of Chapman University.
Jan is survived by her loving husband, Mark, their children, and grandchildren. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the entire Hilbert family during this difficult time, and we extend our heartfelt sympathies to all who had the privilege to know and love Jan.
