CIC researcher explores how conversational AI Is transforming patient communication
Jungmi Jun and alumnus Nanlan Zhang examine how AI tools are reshaping the way patients and providers connect.
Sports Business Journal to publish men's college basketball postseason social media rankings
The USC Social Media Insights Lab will track men's basketball social media buzz with its College Sports Social Pulse, publishing weekly rankings in Sports Business Journal.
Visual storytelling takes center stage as SJMC students claim 10 VIM Fest honors
Spanning interactive design, animation and compelling photojournalism in both still and video formats, their winning projects showcase the depth, versatility and impact of visual storytelling across platforms.
Message from the dean: Creating opportunities
Creating more transformative, real-world opportunities, like our immersive visit to leading media outlets in New York City, is a top priority for the college as we prepare students to lead in a rapidly evolving communications landscape.
CIC faculty research analyzes AI references in advertising
New research from faculty member Viviana Zambrano examines whether referencing artificial intelligence in advertising increases purchase intent or fuels consumer skepticism.
USC students lead in adopting AI at ADDY Awards
AI is everywhere — and marketing is no exception. This year marked the first time that the American Advertising Federation incorporated an AI category into its Midlands ADDY Awards, and USC students rose to the challenge.
Focus on the Fair
Students in instructor Renée Ittner-McManus’ photojournalism course test their skills and capture the thrills at the South Carolina State Fair.
Award-winning work showcases students’ innovation and industry readiness
Creativity, craft and strategic thinking were on full display as students from the School of Journalism and Mass Communications earned top honors at the Midlands ADDY Awards gala.
CIC instructor examines the human impact of algorithms
As algorithms increasingly shape news, branding and digital experiences, understanding their impact is more important than ever. Kristin Walker is helping lead that conversation.
Story time
Cocky’s Reading Express has been promoting childhood literacy for 20 years. The folks behind the popular program revisit the journey.
Play that heals
SJMC alumnus and former USC mascot Cocky brings kids and families comfort through mascot career.
From classroom to “I do”
A love story that began in a USC classroom came full circle on Mary Kate and Matthew Howland’s wedding day. Thanks to the Gamecock network, the couple not only found each other at South Carolina, they found the perfect photographer, too.
Pathway to first-year success: Samantha Hinton
Samantha Hinton is on track to graduate from the University of South Carolina in May with a bachelor’s degree in advertising. The Summerville, South Carolina, resident started out at Carolina in Palmetto Pathway, a bridge program for first-year students.
SJMC senior instructor named 2026 Faculty Champion by the Center for Community News
Nina Brook, senior instructor and scholastic media programs director, is one of 150 journalism leaders from colleges across the country recognized for efforts to start or expand university-led reporting programs in their region, and their contribution to a national movement of student-powered community reporting.
New Normal: Former war correspondent Isabelle Khurshudyan begins next chapter
Back from Ukraine, journalism alumna and former war correspondent Isabelle Khurshudyan begins next chapter at CNN.
Winter storms don't have to be deadly
Brett Robertson, associate director of the Hazards Vulnerability and Resilience Institute at USC and associate professor of journalism, writes for The Conversation about staying safe in severe winter weather.
University Libraries appoints Valerie Vera as research impact librarian
Vera, who earned her Ph.D. in 2025 from the School of Information Science, will partner with USC’s researchers to help showcase their work, be more competitive on grant applications and demonstrate the value of their work both within academia and beyond.
Exploring how artificial intelligence shapes human thinking
At the CIC, Alamir Novin is examining one of the most pressing questions of the digital age: how artificial intelligence shapes the way people think, decide and learn.
The Pulse of the game: How USC researchers are tracking college football’s social media moments
The College of Information and Communications Social Media Insights Lab is capturing the pulse of the college football world — tracking every viral moment, hot take, and trending hashtag in real time.
The Carolina Agency: 20 years of student development, community impact
TCA, a student-run public relations and media agency rooted in the journalism school, has been giving students real-world experience for two decades.
College helps shape UNESCO’s global media freedom report
The College of Information and Communications is playing a prominent role in one of UNESCO's most influential publications, the newly released World Trends in Freedom of Expression and Media Development report.
Librarians facing workplace trauma find support from CIC professor
A rise in troubling and sometimes aggressive incidents at public libraries highlights the growing challenges faced by librarians and staff. Nearly 70% of urban library workers report experiencing violent or aggressive behavior from patrons, according to a recent study.
The power of the pivot: Women, media & the business of sports
This featured panel brings together influential voices across sports, media, and culture to examine how leadership is defined — and recognized — in today’s landscape. Through a dynamic, moderated conversation, panelists explore who holds influence, how credibility is earned, and what it takes to shape outcomes in industries where visibility and power are constantly shifting.
Ph.D. alumna recognized with 2025 PRSA Outstanding Educator Award
Hilary Fussell Sisco has received the 2025 Public Relations Society of America Outstanding Educator Award.
College offers several new study away trips
The College of Information and Communications is excited to announce two new study away programs taking place in May and June, offering students fresh opportunities to explore the world while expanding their academic horizons.