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Sophomore Audrey Webb wins holiday card contest on second try

USC Columbia sophomore Audrey Webb won the 2025 holiday card design contest. A computer science major from Fort Mill, South Carolina, Webb's winning design imagines what the Cocky statue on campus would look like if it snowed. Her design is featured on President Michael Amiridis' and First Lady Ero Aggelopoulou-Amiridis' holiday card, and it earned Webb a $500 gift card.

New psychology professor decodes the brain

Assistant professor Feilong Ma joined USC's Department of Psychology with a research mission to understand how individual brains shape who we are and to advance tools that may transform neuroscience and clinical care.

USC team identifies new class of disinfection byproducts in water treatment systems

An environmental chemistry research lab at USC at the forefront of efforts to find and identify disinfection byproducts in U.S. water treatment systems has discovered a new, highly toxic class of byproducts.

Serving the scientific community

USC chemistry professor Linda Shimizu has a long list of accomplishments, including recently being named a fellow of the American Chemical Society, one of only 36 chemistry professors worldwide to receive the honor in 2025 for scientific and professional accomplishments.

A chemistry professor's quest to make perfectly homogeneous nanocrystals

Millions of times smaller than a grain of salt, nanocrystals have become extraordinarily useful in electronics, drug delivery, biological imaging and beyond.

2025: Year in review

Heading into 2025, the field of higher education faced significant challenges. But at the University of South Carolina, all signs point to dynamic growth and institutional strength.

How an Honors College student's thesis became a children's book

Paige Canady planned to write a straightforward honors thesis, the kind that might get read once or twice, then put on a shelf. But after collaborating with an art education student, the project became a cleverly illustrated children’s book, one that Canady hopes will be read by families everywhere.

Class of 2025 December graduates

As the December Class of 2025 prepares to walk across the commencement stage, graduates leave the University of South Carolina with memories of enduring friendships, newfound passions, supportive mentors and life-changing experiences.

USC researchers seek to improve K-12 mental health with new center

USC has launched the new Center for School Behavioral Health to strengthen K-12 mental health across South Carolina. The interdisciplinary effort will expand research, support school personnel and help improve outcomes for students and families.

When darkness shines: How dark stars could illuminate the early universe

Scientists working with the James Webb Space Telescope discovered three unusual astronomical objects in early 2025, which may be examples of dark stars. Alexey Petrov, a USC endowed chair in physics, writes for The Conversation on how this could alter scientists’ understanding of how ordinary stars form.

Sociology, WGST student discovers career path though service internship

Through a community service internship with Columbia's Harriet Hancock Center, sociology and women's and gender studies student Julia Smith discovered her passion for advocacy and turned classroom lessons into a career dedicated to strengthening her community.

Rhodes scholar finalist plans a career in maternal health care

USC Honors College student and public health major Hannah Brennen, who was a Rhodes scholar finalist, plans to attend medical school to pursue her interest in maternal health.

Student historian maps out a new direction to a career in student affairs

Senior Gracie Bellah started at USC with her plans mapped out. A history and anthropology double major in the Honors College, she dove into historical research and became a leader in student organizations. Her experience helping other students as a McCausland College ambassador helped her decide to take her career plans in a new direction.

Future physician-scientist selected as Marshall Scholarship finalist

South Carolina Honors College student Michael Pitre has been named a finalist for the 2026 Marshall Scholarships. If selected, he plans to pursue an MPhil in biological sciences to develop novel treatments for Parkinson's disease before returning to USC for medical school.

First-generation students bring perspective, energy to USC campus

As the university marks the celebration of First-Gen College Celebration Week, we caught up with first-generation students, alumni, faculty and staff who are thriving in the classroom and beyond.

Brett Sherman: Mungo Undergraduate Teaching Award Winner

Associate professor Brett Sherman fell in love with philosophy as a teenager, before he even understood what he was reading. Now, the 2025 Mungo J. Mungo Undergraduate Teaching Award winner inspires a similar curiosity in his students at the University of

Across arts and sciences, McCausland faculty tackle challenges from empathy to ecology

Researchers in the McCausland College are tackling global challenges -- from waterborne disease affecting 400 million people to children's emotional development through art -- with support from funding secured by the McCausland Grants Operations team.

USC team conducting research on endangered North Atlantic right whales

There are only about 384 North Atlantic right whales remaining on Earth. That’s fewer than the number of students living in the Capstone dorm. The latest count is cause for alarm, and the whales’ leading killers are entanglement in fishing gear and vessel strikes.

First-generation student finds connections on campus

As a first-generation college student and an Asian American, Sarah Tra worried about whether she would be able to find community and connect to her culture on campus. But joining organizations like the Vietnamese Student Association and the Asian and Pacific Islander Activism Association has given her the opportunity to connect with her community through fundraisers, rallies and events that showcase culture through food, music and dance.

Parris Island archaeological project spans 40 years

USC professor Chester DePratter has been sorting through archaeological evidence gathered over nearly four decades of investigation at the 16th century Spanish settlement of Santa Elena on present-day Parris Island. Here's what he and his team found.

Video: Snapping shrimp could hold the key to protecting human brains from shockwaves

Snapping shrimp can create shockwaves strong enough to stun prey. But how do they survive each other’s blasts? USC biologist Dan Speiser and his team discovered that a special “orbital hood” — a helmet-like shield around the shrimp’s eyes and brain — protects them from these powerful shockwaves. Collaborating with biomedical researchers at the Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing, the team is now studying the hood’s structure to design next-generation helmets that could protect human brains from shock waves and even reduce the risk of PTSD in military personnel.

Peter McCausland wants to help University of South Carolina students discover their own pathways to success

College of Arts and Sciences namesake Peter McCausland looks back on his freshman year struggles at USC, the successes that followed and a lifetime of giving back.

How a dancer became a political science graduate turned law student

It's never too late to alter your future. Kaitlyn Byrne learned that when she changed career trajectories from dance to political science and criminal justice while at the McCausland College.

Psychology, criminology major reflects on her experience studying abroad

For psychology and criminology junior Caroline Hinkebein, exploring the world meant going to the University of South Carolina — nearly 1,000 miles away from her hometown. But her concept of world travel broadened when she got the opportunity to study abroad in Europe her freshman year. We talked to her about her experiences abroad.

Double duty: USC scientists discover that SARM1 protein helps rebuild nerve cells after breaking them down

USC neuroscientists reveal that SARM1, known for nerve degeneration, also aids nerve repair--offering new insight into healing and neurotherapeutic research.

Living and Learning: English, psychology senior reflects on experience in the Global Fellows community

English and psychology senior Rowan Coutsos talks about the experience living in South Quad, one of USC’s seven faculty-led living and learning communities.

South Carolina Honors College graduate Tremayne Ansani finds his path at USC

Tremayne Ansani had big plans before he even set foot on campus, but he had one overarching goal: to create and support community. Four years and a double major later, the Honors College graduate sat on the commencement stage as the recipient of the university’s highest student honor, the Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award.

Unsung ocean fungi have 'superpower' to aid healthy marine environments

Little-known ocean fungi are microscopic in size but make a gargantuan impact on subterranean life. Their superpower? They are the heavy lifters of carbon and nitrogen cycling, processes essential for life on earth. Nick Peng, assistant professor in the School of the Earth, Ocean and Environment, would like unsung ocean fungi finally to get the recognition they deserve.

Patient-reported outcome measures essential to clinical decision-making

USC philosophy professor Leah McClimans cares about how health care professionals gauge the quality of patient outcomes beyond traditional clinical metrics. Her research has helped improve survey instruments so they are more inclusive of the patient’s entire experience.

Researchers and former students recall harsh lessons from historic 2015 Midlands flood

It happened a decade ago, but lessons learned from the catastrophic flooding of Oct. 1-5, 2015, in the Midlands of South Carolina are still being reckoned by University of South Carolina researchers and former students who were involved in the flood’s aftermath.

Mentorship in Action: How McCausland Mentor Night shaped an environmental health leader

Meadow Wessinger graduated USC with a degree in biology and political science and while still a student, she found a McCausland mentor who helped her step outside her comfort zone.

Guiding Gamecocks: Two-time graduate helps McCausland students shape their paths

Lexington attorney and two-time USC graduate Brian Autry gives guidance to current McCausland students and answers their questions about the future.

Sarah Barker shares her wisdom about the mind-body connection

Theater Professor Emeritus Sarah Barker learned a new way of thinking about the mind-body connection early in her career. She has been spreading the word ever since.

Michael J. Mungo Distinguished Professor of the Year: Greg Carbone

Greg Carbone is USC’s 2025 Michael J. Mungo Distinguished Professor of the Year, but lecturing and leading classroom discussions didn’t always come easy for the veteran geography professor. His secret is to remind himself that good teaching comes from a place of joy and curiosity.

How to Throw a Festival: Hogs for the Cause

Over the past 16 years, Hogs for the Cause has raised millions of dollars to help families facing pediatric brain cancer. Cofounder Becker Hall credits the University of South Carolina for showing him the way.

Living and Learning: Sophomore history major reflects on his experience in the First-Generation Living and Learning Community

Eduardo Ajuech-Agreda talks about how his experience living in Maxcy Residence Hall, one of USC’s seven faculty-led living and learning communities, helped him as a first-generation student.

English, Honors College alumnus follows his filmmaking passion

Luke Hodges says he found the arts community he was looking for when he transferred into USC's English and Honors programs more than 10 years ago. Looking back, the writer and documentary filmmaker says there was an "insane smorgasbord of opportunities" at USC.

Students build for the future with Habitat for Humanity

USC's chapter of Habitat for Humanity is building homes and futures. Led by president Ria Kothari, the club works in the community almost every weekend to build homes to improve access to affordable housing.

Garnet Apple Award: Meena Khalili

Change is a constant in the field of visual design — and Garnet Apple Award winner Meena Khalili embraces it. It’s what allows her, and her students, to be at the forefront of their field and to be ready for multiple career roles.

Living and learning: Criminal justice major reflects on experience in Capstone Scholars program

Criminal justice sophomore Navia Vohra talks about her experience living in Captone, one of USC’s seven faculty-led living and learning communities.

Neuroscience student finds connection, purpose in pursuing special education

If Jaelyn Souza could give just one piece of advice to this year’s incoming students at USC, it would be this: “Keep an open mind, because me as a freshman and me as a senior are two very different people.” The neuroscience major says all of her beyond-the-classroom experiences helped her decide on her career path.

Baruch researchers investigate impacts of warming waters on shrimp populations

Project investigators from USC’s Baruch Marine Field Lab have been collaborating on a study into the impacts of warming coastal ocean waters on shrimp populations. They found that shrimp populations have been largely stable, and warmer water temperatures have led to longer seasons for shrimpers, often through January.

Kazakhstan studies affirm imperative to secure nuclear storage solutions

The pleasing pastoral landscapes across the former Semipalatinsk Nuclear Test Site in Kazakhstan hardly reflect its dark history. Generations of locals have lived near the site since it opened in 1949, and many remain today. USC researchers Timothy Mousseau and Magdalena Stawkowski are studying the impact of radioactive isotopes on the people, animals and plants of Semipalantinsk

Carolina Trustees Professorship: Susan D. Richardson, chemistry

Chemistry professor Susan D. Richardson, the 2025 Carolina Trustees Professorship recipient, has spent her career researching water— from the safety of the water we drink to the quality of water for our ecosystems.

Video: Investigating remote work "offices"

Remote work has become more common since the COVID19 pandemic, however it might not be the best for every worker. The Family Inequality Research Lab led by sociology professor Jennifer Augustine investigated remote work through collecting data on remote work spaces. What they found may surprise you.

From chemistry labs to courtrooms: Honors College senior finds new path at USC

Honors College senior Luci Green initially decided to study chemistry in college, but after taking a course taught by a visiting law professor, she began considering a new path. Now, she’s pursuing a pre-law concentration in conjunction with her chemistry major in hopes of becoming a patent lawyer.

Biologist Sean Ehlman will soon bring his expertise on animal behavior to USC's biology department

Sean Ehlman researches how ecological factors shape animal behavior, using AI-powered tracking tools to study fish and other aquatic species in changing environments.

New English faculty member Alex Millen explores literature, class and the British empire

Alex Millen, assistant professor of English at the University of South Carolina, researches the literary and cultural history of imperial Britain, focusing on class politics, democracy and the novel during the Age of Empire.

New history faculty member Yelana Sims examines race, gender and technology in American history

Yelana Sims, assistant professor of history at the University of South Carolina, researches how technologies like film and photography used racial and gendered imagery to enter the marketplace, and how Black women responded to these narratives.

Criminologist joins USC faculty with focus on gun-violence prevention and police reform

Paige Vaughn, assistant professor of criminology and criminal justice at the University of South Carolina, researches gun violence prevention, police crime-solving and racial disparities in the justice system.

Natalie Letsa brings global perspective to USC's Department of Political Science

Natalie Letsa offers expertise in African politics, authoritarianism and questions of justice and equity in her teaching and research.

3-time alumna helps tell the story of the early Republic

Zoie Horecny, who earned her undergraduate, master’s and doctorate in history from USC, is now the Digital George Washington Papers editor at the Washington Presidential Library at Mount Vernon.

Garnet Apple Award: Eilea Knotts

Marine biologist Eilea Knotts believes failure can be an important part of learning. She brings this philosophy into her classrooms, where she has equipped her students to learn from their setbacks and keep going with a new grading system. Her ingenuity has earned her the Center for Teaching Excellence’s Garnet Apple Award for Teaching Innovation.

Students curate the past and look toward the future: SVAD centennial exhibition showcases 100 years of art at USC

USC's School of Visual Art and Design celebrates its centennial with Generations: 100 Years of Art at USC, a McKissick Museum exhibition curated by students that highlights a century of faculty legacies, student impact and importance of art education.

USC criminology Ph.D. candidate's research could improve legal justice in jails

Christina Plakas, a criminology Ph.D. student at USC, is tackling legal access gaps in jails, creating national standards while using research, storytelling and community work to push for justice reform.

History shows why FEMA is essential in disasters

Ever since FEMA lost its independent status and became part of the Department of Homeland Security, it has faced complaints about delays caused by layers of bureaucracy. Take a look back at how the nation responded to disasters before the agency existed and what history reveals about FEMA effectiveness.

Researchers find evidence for Younger Dryas comet-impact theory in ocean cores

Christopher Moore, research professor with the Institute for Archaeology and Anthropology at the University of South Carolina, recently led a team that analyzed sediment from the ocean floor in Baffin Bay, Greenland. Their efforts produced the first evidence — sourced directly from ocean cores — that a comet impact could have triggered an abrupt cooling of the atmosphere during a period known as the Younger Dryas 13,000 years ago.

Michael J. Mungo Undergraduate Teaching Award: Amy Taylor-Perry

For nearly 14 years, Amy Taylor-Perry has taught general chemistry classes and labs at USC. Hundreds of students take these courses each semester, and Taylor-Perry has designed them to provide a solid foundation. She has now received the Michael J. Mungo Undergraduate Teaching Award, with her nomination endorsed by the entire Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry.

Cyber policy and ethics student helps West Columbia tackle crime with code

USC senior Claudia Case used Excel, data maps and tech savvy to help West Columbia Police reduce crime--without ever leaving her desk.

Camp rock: USC geology students take their learning to the field

From red rock canyons to desert mountain peaks, USC geology students go beyond the classroom in a transformative field camp funded by alumni support.

How your hobby could fight misinformation, according to this USC graduate's new book

How can hobbies and human connection help fight misinformation? USC grad Matthew Facciani explores the answer in his new book, Misguided.

Art history graduate runs 'fashion week of the art world' in New York City

Aaron Anderson works for months putting together whirlwind art auctions that last mere minutes, combining his art history and finance knowledge to connect collectors to historical pieces.

How SVAD alum Kieran Ash's designs serve South Carolina wildlife

Graphic design graduate Kieran Ash creates striking designs for South Carolina's Department of Natural Resources, helping our state preserve its most vulnerable wildlife.

SC House recognizes AFAM faculty member for public education advocacy

Kendall Deas has worked for over a decade advocating for and researching public education access and equity across South Carolina.

Philosophy and Political Science student turns big questions into an Ivy League acceptance

Philosophy and political science double major Zach McClure graduates from USC with a deep passion for big questions, complex answers, and a Yale Law School acceptance. From studying abroad to analyzing judicial credibility, his journey blends critical thinking with purpose-driven advocacy.

Studio art graduate lends talents to Columbia arts scene

Arts and humanities graduate Emily Moffitt is making the arts more accessible in Columbia by curating inclusive exhibitions, supporting local artists and connecting the community.

First-generation international studies graduate ready to tackle global challenges

A first-generation college student from Michoacan, Mexico, Reyes moved to the U.S. during high school and arrived at the University of South Carolina searching for direction. She found it in the International Studies program in the McCausland College of Arts and Sciences, where her passion for understanding global connections took shape.

For marine chemist Brandi Revels, remote work means an Antarctic cruise

It’s not hard to understand why Brandi Revels loves her job as a researcher aboard the expedition ship Viking Polaris. The sense of awe — for our world, for our planet — drew her to science. Her love of adventure took her from West Columbia, South Carolina, to the far ends of the Earth. Revels, who earned her master’s in marine chemistry from the University of South Carolina in 2013, now lives in Zurich, Switzerland — when she’s not spending months at sea as the chief scientist aboard the Viking Polaris.

Cheers to the Class of 2025!

Celebrate the Class of 2025 from the McCausland College of Arts and Sciences as graduates reflect on their experiences and share what's next.

2025 graduate follows the data into research bridging biology, chemistry and AI

Christian Geils, USC's first data science graduate, used AI to tackle research in biology and chemistry--earning a Magellan grant and launching the university's first AI student club along the way.

About the USC graduate who just named the McCausland College of Arts and Sciences

When Peter McCausland first visited the University of South Carolina as a teenager, he had no idea he would one day become the namesake of its largest college. From changing majors and finding his passion for history, to founding a Fortune 500 company and giving back through transformative philanthropy, McCausland's journey is a testament to the lifelong power of a liberal arts education. Learn how one USC graduate shaped his legacy -- and the future of the McCausland College of Arts and Sciences.

The Doctor Is In

Don Greiner set out to become a medical doctor. An encounter with the modern novel changed the course of his life.

A South Carolina road with a “Welcome to South Carolina” sign USC health sciences graduates have major impact in rural areas

From obstetricians and nurses to social workers and psychiatrists, University of South Carolina graduates are especially needed in rural areas, where more than a quarter of the state’s residents live. And the impact isn’t only felt by the patient; it’s also felt by the communities themselves. Carolinian visited several alumni whose small-town efforts are having a big impact. These proud health care workers showed us the meaning of dedication and their commitment to the people and communities they serve.

From Microbes to Medicine: How this USC chemistry professor inspires future scientists

In Jie Li's chemistry lab at USC, undergraduate researchers discover how tiny microbes can lead to big discoveries for medicine and public health.

SC impact: Pell Grant recipients thrive in a wide range of fields

For more than 50 years, USC has made an undergraduate education more attainable through TRIO programs. The foundation of these opportunities is the Pell Grant. Here, USC alumni share how the Pell Grant opened the door for them to achieve their dreams of earning their degrees and attaining fulfilling, impactful careers.

Class of 2025

As the Class of 2025 prepares to walk across the commencement stage, graduates leave the University of South Carolina with memories of enduring friendships, newfound passions, supportive mentors and life-changing experiences.

Brain scientist Kristy Welshhans helps student researchers tackle big questions in early development

McCausland College of Arts and Sciences neuroscientist Kristy Welshhans advances Down syndrome research while mentoring undergraduates in cutting-edge brain development studies to prepare them for careers in science, medicine and beyond.

USC geographer Jessica Barnes awarded prestigious Guggenheim Fellowship

Associate professor Jessica Barnes has been awarded a 2025 Guggenheim Fellowship — one of the nation’s most prestigious honors for scholars, artists and scientists. Barnes is known for her research on how people interact with the environment in their everyday lives — especially how resources like water, food and air are used, controlled and experienced unequally across different communities.

Swanger award winner will take service mindset into medical career

Ridha Fatima, a biochemistry and molecular biology major in the Honors College, says her experiences as a service-minded leader at the University of South Carolina will inform her career as a physician and health care advocate.

Sullivan award-winner dedicated to research, service

Tremayne Ansani, an Honors College neuroscience major from Columbia, has dedicated his University of South Carolina career to service and leadership in the classroom, in research and in helping his fellow students and the community at large.

Sullivan award winner dedicated to health care access in Appalachia

Reese Lycan, an Honors College student from Lexington, Kentucky, is majoring in biochemistry and molecular biology with a goal of becoming a physician. But she also wants to advocate for better health care access, particularly for low-income residents of rural Appalachia.

Student government experience leads two USC seniors to Harvard Law

USC’s student government has two graduating seniors who have been accepted to Harvard Law School, one of the nation’s top programs. The students credit their time in student government, along with the excellent training they received both in the classroom and beyond, with helping them reach their goals.

USC chemistry professor awarded as champion for undergraduate researchers

USC chemistry professor Olja Simoska helps turn first-year students into scientists and earned the 2025 Distinguished Undergraduate Research Mentor Award for launching hands-on lab experiences that tackle big issues like antibiotic resistance and wearable health tech.

Neuroscience major wants to focus on brain health in rural areas

After noticing his grandmother’s lack of access to adequate health care in rural India, senior Pranav Malladi decided to focus on health care in rural areas.

USC media arts alumni shape Columbia's filmmaking scene

Four USC media arts alumni are shaping Columbia's film scene--turning passion into legacy while mentoring the next generation of storytellers.

USC celebrates 2025 Governor's Award for the Arts winners

The Koger Center, USC School of Music professor Gail Barnes and USC School of Visual Arts and Design alumnus Wade Sellers have been named winners of the 2025 Governor’s Awards for the Arts by the South Carolina Arts Commission, recognizing exceptional practice or support of contemporary and traditional art forms.

USC neuroscience experts working to understand, improve brain health

The University of South Carolina is focused on the brain. From autism and aphasia to Alzheimer’s and other related dementias, university researchers are working across several academic disciplines to better understand how the brain works and to develop solutions that will improve people’s health.

Joffrey Ballet delivers unparalleled experience for USC student performers

It’s been a whirlwind semester for dancers and musicians at the University of South Carolina. Twenty-four Joffrey Ballet company members arrived on campus March 17 for a three-week residency culminating in an unprecedented collaborative performance April 5 at the Koger Center for the Arts. Students and faculty from USC’s Betsy Blackmon Dance Program and the USC Symphony Orchestra have joined forces with members of the Joffrey entourage to marry movement and music into a spectacular concert for the community.

Michael Stipe Named 2025 McNair Honoree

Michael Stipe, former lead singer of R.E.M., was honored as the 2025 McNair Honoree during a live-recorded McNair Conversation on the American South, hosted by the Institute for Southern Studies. The event highlighted his artistic career and will be featured on the Take on the South podcast, along with a video and images available online.

Large eyes stare out from a night sky Video: The Great Gatsby turns 100

On April 10, 2025, the great American novel "The Great Gatsby" turns 100 years old. Take a behind-the-scenes look at the exhibit “'Something significant, elemental and profound’: Celebrating 100 Years of The Great Gatsby” at the Ernest F. Hollings Special Collections Library.

In the footsteps of Chand Bibi

As a Fulbright Scholar, Sarah Waheed traced the footsteps of Chand Bibi through the southwestern region of India. She visited ruins and archives, working with historians, archeologists and residents to gather the pieces of Chand Bibi’s story. Now Waheed tells this story in her forthcoming book.

USC alumna, Marine champions veterans

For USC alumna Caroline Fermin, the decision to join the Marines at a time when only 2 percent of the officer corps were women led to a successful 25 years in the military with high-level global postings and numerous medals for meritorious service. She followed her military service with a thriving second career in public service, now as the director of Veterans Affairs for Beaufort County.

Give 4 Garnet helps fuel geology students' essential field camp experience

Geology students turn to Give 4 Garnet — the university's annual day of giving — to help fund their essential field camp experience.

USC psychologist uses mobile EEG to break down barriers to research

AJ Peterman is undergoing an EEG for a study led by Caitlin Hudac, director of USC’s Brain Research Across Development lab. Hudac first took her lab on the road to test children who have rare genetic conditions and couldn’t travel. Now, she hopes to expand her reach.

Children's book about Ida B. Wells by USC professor wins international award

USC professor Dianne Johnson-Feelings' latest children's book, Ida B. Wells Marches for the Vote, has won the prestigious Golden Kite Award. The book brings to life the inspiring story of Ida B. Wells, a fearless journalist and suffragist who fought for justice. Through her work, Johnson-Feelings continues to ignite a love for literature and history in young readers.

PR and English graduate builds a career in Columbia's arts scene

Sumner Bender credits a movie with inspiring her first true career choice. It seems only fitting, then, that the 2007 public relations graduate now leads Columbia’s art house cinema, The Nickelodeon Theatre. Her journey from PR to nonprofit executive has woven through Columbia’s arts scene for most of her adult life.

World-renowned Joffrey Ballet residency at USC promises unforgettable experiences

Dance students in the University of South Carolina’s Betsy Blackmon Dance Program are spending extra time at the barre in anticipation of the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity they will have collaborating with the world-famous Joffrey Ballet. The company begins a three-week residency at USC on March 17 that will culminate with an unprecedented Koger Center performance on April 5.

USC youth summer camps 2025

With only a few short months until summer, it’s time for parents to find summer activities for their children. USC offers a wide variety of summer camps for all ages and all interests from music to soccer, dance and engineering.

AIs flunk language test that takes grammar out of the equation

While the quality of AI systems' output sometimes rivals work done by humans, they are also prone to confidently churning out factually incorrect information. Skeptics have also called into question their ability to reason.

Gamecock grad went all-in on math and stats. Now he invests in people.

Steve Smith's love for numbers led him from a surprising run-in with the law as a Gamecock freshman to a top role in investment management. The former math and statistics major now helps organizations maximize financial returns--and invests in the careers of young professionals, just as his advisors once invested in him.

How a USC media arts graduate empowers youth through writing

USC Media Arts graduate Elizabeth Perlman empowers youth through creative writing, channeling her passion for storytelling and lessons from her alma mater into her students at the Intuitive Writing Project.

Seven incoming McCausland scholars uphold legacy of excellence

Seven faculty members at the University of South Carolina's College of Arts and Sciences have been named McCausland Faculty Fellows, the college's most prestigious faculty award. These scholars, specializing in fields ranging from criminology to mathematics, exemplify excellence in teaching and research. The fellowship, established through a $10 million endowment from alumnus Peter McCausland and his wife, Bonnie, supports early-career faculty in advancing their research and academic contributions.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. nomination signals new era of anti-intellectualism in American politics

The many controversial people appointed to the Trump administration have at least one thing in common: They dislike and distrust experts. While anti-intellectualism and populism are nothing new in American life, there has hardly been an administration as seemingly committed to these worldviews.

USC students explore American history with Mellon Grant programs

USC students are diving deep into American history with the help of a $500,000 Mellon Grant. Through dynamic events, research opportunities, and expert-led discussions, they're engaging with constitutional scholars and exploring the relevance of founding documents in today's democracy. Discover how this program is shaping the next generation of civic leaders.

2025 heart health faculty experts list

February is American Heart Month. The University of South Carolina is home to many faculty members who are available to offer their expertise in cardio care and research.

The Starbase rocket testing facility is permanently changing the landscape of southern Texas

If there is a leader in the aerospace industry, SpaceX is it. Boca Chica, Texas, is home to SpaceX’s flagship assembly and test installation, Starbase. Since 2021, research has been conducted with environmental groups and community members in south Texas who see space exploration as a landscape-altering industry. Geography professor Robert A. Kopack writes about Starbase for The Conversation.

As Syria ponders a democratic future: 5 lessons from the Arab Spring

The fall of Bashar Assad’s dictatorship in December 2024 has ushered in a nerve-wracking time of hope and fear for Syrians concerning future governance in the long-war-torn country. While it’s unclear what exact political path Syria will take, the dilemmas the country faces are similar to the experiences of other Arab countries more than a decade ago. Robert Kubinec, assistant professor of political science at the University of South Carolina, writes for The Conversation about his research on Arab uprisings in the Middle East.

Video: USC professor, alumni work to prepare communities for hazardous events

From communities in the Southeast submerged by floodwaters to neighborhoods on the California coast battling raging wildfires, natural disasters are on the rise. Hear from geographer Susan Cutter, Carolina Distinguished Professor, and alumni working in emergency management across the state and nation about how tools like the Social Vulnerability Index can lead to better outcomes for the future.

USC alum, Medal of Honor recipient recognized at national championship

University of South Carolina alumnus and Medal of Honor recipient Marine Corporal (retired) Kyle Carpenter will be recognized during Monday’s national championship college football game.

Chemistry professor deploys genome mining techniques in search for medically useful bioagents

Drawing from an enormous collection of genetic material, a University of South Carolina chemistry professor is on a mission to find novel bioactive agents with potential antibiotic, anti-cancer and anti-inflammation applications.

USC student joins first undergraduate research program at Folger Shakespeare Library

USC English and philosophy student Erin Reed is among the first undergraduates accepted to the prestigious Folger Shakespeare Library Colloquy, where she'll conduct and present research on early modern literature.

Alum James Bennett strengthens community engagement as banker

A first-generation college student at USC, James Bennett now strengthens community engagement as executive director of external affairs at First Citizens Bank.

Student Spotlight: Sara Otero (Studio Art / Graphic Design and Illustration)

From doodling in notebooks to designing the USC College of Arts and Sciences' holiday card, Sara Otero's journey as an artist is one to watch!

Pradeep Talwani retired more than 15 years ago, but he hardly gave up scholarly pursuit. The geophysics professor's forthcoming book might rattle the traditional narrative.

Retired geophysics professor Pradeep Talwani’s forthcoming book, which is under contract with Oxford University Press, explores the origin of certain scientific ideas and could rattle the traditional narrative.

Former USC football player Garrison Gist shows us his Charlotte murals

Garrison Gist played fullback for the Gamecocks. Now the School of Visual Art and Design graduate is scoring big as a muralist and painter.

2024 Year in Review

Dean Joel H. Samuels reflects on a year of achievements and opportunities in the College of Arts and Sciences, looking ahead to 2025.