Recent Stories

Electrical engineering research group poised to advance manufacturing technology for next-gen semiconductors

June 03, 2025, Chris Horn

Twenty-five years ago, electrical engineering professor Asif Khan and his team helped put the University of South Carolina on the map in semiconductor electronics and photonics research, garnering several large grants and gaining widespread scholarly recognition along the way. Now, Khan and several colleagues in the Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing are poised to do it again in the field of next-generation extreme semiconductor chips that can function in harsh environments — including outer space.

Topics: Faculty, Research, Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing

Alumnus credits honors program with building foundation for success

May 30, 2025, Megan Sexton

The roots of Adm. Jacob Shuford’s 35-year U.S. Navy career — which took him to top postings all over the world — were planted and nurtured in the honors program at the University of South Carolina.

Topics: Alumni, Academics, Undergraduate Admissions, Philanthropy, Leadership, Careers, South Carolina Honors College

USC Facilities cuts ribbon on new home for recycling services site

May 29, 2025, Koby Padgett

The University of South Carolina’s Facilities department officially opened its new site for its recycling collections facility Thursday (May 29) after years at temporary spots around campus.

Topics: Initiatives, Partnerships

SC Impact: Building stronger communities

May 28, 2025, Communications and marketing

From creating social mobility by supporting first-generation students to providing resources for community members who need them most, the University of South Carolina is dedicated to strengthening our state and improving the lives of its residents. It’s work that goes beyond the college campus and extends into every corner of South Carolina.

Topics: Students, Alumni, Faculty, Experiential Learning, Graduate Studies, Philanthropy, Partnerships, Service, McCausland College of Arts and Sciences, College of Education, The Graduate School, Medicine (Columbia), College of Social Work

Nursing faculty member achieves her goals by degrees and with determination

May 21, 2025, Chris Horn

Nursing faculty member Jessica Gonzalez was recently selected to become a Jonas Scholar, an elite cohort of emerging nursing leaders from across the country. And her current Ph.D. research, which focuses on disparities in breast cancer diagnoses, was recognized by the National Institutes for Health with an R25 training grant.

Topics: Faculty, Academics, Research, Recognition, Health Sciences, Leadership, Careers, College of Nursing

Susan Elkins, founding chancellor of Palmetto College, steps down

May 20, 2025, Megan Sexton

Susan Elkins, the founding chancellor of Palmetto College, steps down this month after 12 years leading the program which encompasses USC’s two-year system campuses along with online bachelor’s degree completion programs.

Topics: Faculty, University Leadership, Academics, Initiatives, Recognition, SC Impact, Leadership, Careers, University System

Graduate award winners recognized

May 19, 2025, Thom Harman, with Matt Klopfenstein

The Graduate School recently announced and recognized its 2025 Graduate Student Award winners and Trustee Fellowship recipients, as well as the graduates from the school’s scholarly initiatives. The school held its annual Recognition of Excellence Ceremony on April 25 at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center.

Topics: Students, Academics, Scholarships, Graduate Studies, McCausland College of Arts and Sciences, College of Education, Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing, The Graduate School, College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management, Medicine (Columbia), College of Pharmacy, Arnold School of Public Health, College of Social Work

Palmetto Power

May 19, 2025, Rebekah Friedman

As the state’s flagship public university, the University of South Carolina seeks solutions to a range of modern challenges. And our researchers are lighting the way.

Topics: Faculty, Research, Health Sciences, Leadership, Careers, Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing, Arnold School of Public Health, College of Social Work, Breakthrough Research

USC announces 2025 Staff Excellence Awards recipients

May 19, 2025, Collyn Taylor

USC announced the recipients of its Staff Excellence Awards, which are given annually to staff members at the university who go above and beyond in their roles to help USC thrive.

Topics: Faculty, Recognition

Graduate student inspired by U101 experience to get a master's degree in student affairs

May 14, 2025, Téa Smith

Graduate student Morgan Grace Steele decided to change paths after participating in the South Carolina Washington Semester program — a program that gives students the opportunity to work and take classes in the nation’s capital — through the Honors College her junior year. After reflecting on her experience in the course University 101 and conversations with her professors and loved ones, she decided to pursue a master’s in higher education and student affairs.

Topics: Students, Student Voices, College of Education

Honors College junior named USC's 18th Udall Scholar

May 14, 2025, Brandon Pugh

Rising Honors College senior Ella Michel has been awarded a 2025 Udall Undergraduate Scholarship to continue her work at the intersection of energy, environment and community.

Topics: Students, Faculty, Academics, Research, Scholarships, Recognition, Service, Leadership, South Carolina Honors College

Biomedical engineering alum stays on mission with work in venture capital

May 12, 2025, Laura Erskine

USC alumnus David Prim has dedicated his career to fighting cardiovascular diseases — first as a researcher and now as a venture capitalist. He works for Broadview Ventures in Boston, helping the organization identify and invest in promising new technologies for the diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular disease and stroke.

Topics: Alumni, Research, Graduate Studies, Economic Engagement, Health Sciences, Careers, Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing, The Graduate School, South Carolina Honors College

School of Medicine alum treats patients in underserved communities around the world

May 12, 2025, Craig Brandhorst

USC’s impact on health care is improving lives throughout the Palmetto State, but our graduates take their knowledge around the world. For School of Medicine Columbia graduate Katy Close, that has meant treating patients in underserved communities from El Salvador to Haiti to Liberia.

Topics: Alumni, Recognition, Philanthropy, Leadership, Careers, Medicine (Columbia), Carolinian

HRSM professor melds law and marketing expertise to prepare students

May 08, 2025, Thom Harman / photo by Kim Truett

Natasha Brison has practiced law and worked in the entertainment industry, starting a business as a marketing consultant for professional athletes. She also conducts research and came to South Carolina despite already earning tenure at another top institution. Now Brison brings her experience to USC's classrooms as an associate professor in the College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management's Department of Sport and Entertainment Management. Her diverse background is proving to be a great resource for her students as she prepares them to pursue their dreams after graduation.

Topics: Faculty, Academics, Research, College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management

SC Impact: Building better health

May 08, 2025, Communications and Marketing

As a small state with an aging and rapidly growing population, South Carolina faces a shortage of health care professionals — even as it confronts high rates of chronic diseases like heart disease, stroke, diabetes and cancer. The challenges are significant, but the University of South Carolina is working every day to address them head-on.

Topics: Faculty, University Leadership, Research, Health Sciences, McCausland College of Arts and Sciences, Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing, Medicine (Columbia), College of Pharmacy, Arnold School of Public Health

2 Gamecocks reflect on life behind the beak

May 08, 2025, Michaela Taylor

For most University of South Carolina students, Cocky is a symbol of school spirit synonymous with USC and complete with beak flaps, spurs up and fun game antics. But for seniors Nicole Hurley and John Sutay, the mascot means something more — it’s a defining part of their college experience, one they kept secret for years.

Topics: Students, College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management, College of Nursing

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

May 07, 2025, Megan Sexton

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.

Topics: Alumni, Research, Recognition, Leadership, Careers, McCausland College of Arts and Sciences, Carolinian

USC's latest Rotary Scholar seeks global engagement

May 06, 2025, Valerie Weingart

Senior NROTC midshipman Ryan Lohr realized early that, to grow as a communicator, he couldn’t just talk about the world in his classes — he needed to engage with the world.

Topics: Students, Academics, Experiential Learning, Scholarships, Leadership, Student Voices

Catledge named new campus dean of USC Lancaster

May 06, 2025, Communications and Marketing

Longtime USC Lancaster faculty member and interim campus dean will take over as full-time dean beginning May 12.

Topics: University Leadership, University System

Retired English professor reflects on how a novel changed his life

May 05, 2025, Chris Horn / photo by Kim Truett

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

Topics: Faculty, Recognition, Leadership, Careers, McCausland College of Arts and Sciences, Carolinian

Honors student builds career path in engineering, while nurturing his passion for music

May 05, 2025, Page Ivey

Aidan Billings followed his head and his heart when he came to the University of South Carolina. Billings, who also is in the South Carolina Honors College, didn’t think a career as a musician would provide the income he wanted for his life, so he chose engineering for that aspect. But the second violinist in USC’s Symphony Orchestra says he loves playing classical music and does it professionally with several orchestras in the state.

Topics: Students, Research, Student Voices, Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing, School of Music, South Carolina Honors College

Richard Layman: Sharing collections

May 02, 2025, Craig Brandhorst / photo by Kim Truett

Rick Layman studied under English professor, publisher and F. Scott Fitzgerald collector Matthew J. Bruccoli and later became Bruccoli’s business partner. Like his mentor, Layman also became a collector — in his case of Dashiell Hammett. And both men’s collections are now housed in USC’s Irvin Department of Rare Books and Special Collections.

Topics: Alumni, History, Collections, Recognition, Leadership, Careers, McCausland College of Arts and Sciences, Carolinian

USC health sciences graduates have major impact in rural areas

May 02, 2025, Rebekah Friedman / photos by Kim Truett

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.

Topics: Alumni, Recognition, Economic Engagement, SC Impact, Careers, McCausland College of Arts and Sciences, Medicine (Columbia), College of Social Work, Carolinian

USC celebrates spring graduates

April 30, 2025, Jeff Stensland

The USC system will welcome thousands of new alumni in a series of commencement ceremonies recognizing bachelor’s, master’s and professional degree recipients as well as awarding six honorary degrees.

Topics: speakers, Signature Events

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

April 29, 2025, Laura Erskine

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.

Topics: Alumni, Scholarships, SC Impact, Careers, McCausland College of Arts and Sciences, College of Education, Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing, The Graduate School, College of Information and Communications, Joseph F. Rice School of Law, Medicine (Columbia), College of Nursing, Arnold School of Public Health

Mentoring program empowers families of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

April 29, 2025, Carol J.G. Ward

Preliminary results from a five-year NIH-funded study at the University of South Carolina show that the Autism Parent Navigator Program improves mental health, parenting confidence and caregiver relationships for families with children diagnosed with autism. Led by social work professor Robert Hock, the program connects parents with experienced peer navigators to offer guidance, emotional support and skill-building.

Topics: Faculty, Research, Health Sciences, College of Social Work

New athletics director Jeremiah Donati shares bold vision

April 29, 2025, Craig Brandhorst / photos by Kim Truett

New athletics director Jeremiah Donati has only been on campus since January, but his vision for USC has been years in the making.

Topics: University Leadership, Leadership, Careers, Carolinian

Remembering the Days -- Monuments and memorials: A conversation with Lydia Brandt

April 29, 2025, Chris Horn and Evan Faulkenbury

As an architectural historian, Lydia Brandt is trained to read the world around her, which at USC means understanding the context of campus buildings — why they were built in a certain style, why they were named for particular individuals and how the institution defines its identity through its physical space. Our conversation with Brandt touches on those ideas and the university's recent efforts to tell a larger story of its past through figurative monuments. 

Topics: History

For WNBA superstar A'ja Wilson, 2025 is a full court press

April 29, 2025, Craig Brandhorst / photos by Kim Truett

Between her jersey retirement and a Nike shoe hitting stores, three-time WNBA All-Star A’Ja Wilson is enjoying a banner year.

Topics: Alumni, Recognition, Leadership, Careers, Carolinian

New USC clinic tackles mental health provider shortage in rural South Carolina

April 29, 2025, Carol J.G. Ward

The University of South Carolina School of Medicine Columbia is opening a free mental health clinic to serve rural communities in Bamberg, Calhoun, Fairfield, Orangeburg and Chester counties. Launching this summer, the student-operated, faculty-supervised clinic will offer in-person and telehealth services to those with limited access to care.

Topics: Students, Faculty, Academics, Experiential Learning, Health Sciences, SC Impact, Medicine (Columbia)

Jennifer Baumstark leads Nurse-Midwifery program, advancing maternal health in South Carolina

April 29, 2025, Gregory Hardy and Laura Morris

Jennifer Baumstark, a seasoned certified nurse-midwife and newly appointed director of the University of South Carolina’s accredited nurse-midwifery program, is spearheading efforts to improve maternal health across South Carolina. With a focus on mentorship, advocacy and expanding the nursing-midwifery workforce, Baumstark brings over two decades of clinical and academic experience to this pivotal role.

Topics: Faculty, Academics, Graduate Studies, Health Sciences, Leadership, College of Nursing

Class of 2025

April 28, 2025, Megan Sexton

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.

Topics: Students, Alumni, Recognition, Health Sciences, Student Voices, McCausland College of Arts and Sciences, Darla Moore School of Business, College of Education, Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing, The Graduate School, College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management, College of Information and Communications, school-of-law, School of Music, College of Nursing, College of Pharmacy, Arnold School of Public Health, College of Social Work, South Carolina Honors College

What's So Great about Gatsby?

April 28, 2025, Craig Brandhorst

The Great Gatsby turned 100 in April. University Libraries is celebrating the novel’s centennial with a special exhibit and a full slate of public programs.

Topics: speakers, Initiatives, Collections, Leadership, University Libraries, Carolinian

Your study aesthetic: Check out these underrated study spots

April 25, 2025, Cynthia Gunter

We’ve rounded up a few of our favorite study locations across campus that should set you up for success in acing your upcoming exams. No matter where you fall on the study spot spectrum, USC has the environment you need to focus and get it done.

Topics: Academics

USC football player combines engineering, business off the field

April 25, 2025, Téa Smith

Gamecock football player William Joyce was one of the first students selected to participate in the 4+1 pathway partnership between the Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing and the Darla Moore School of Business. The program prioritizes engineering and computing graduates for direct admissions into the Moore School's one-year Master of Business Administration or the Master of Science in Business Analytics programs.

Topics: Students, Academics, Graduate Studies, Student Voices, Darla Moore School of Business, Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing

Innovative tech aims to help older adults age in place

April 24, 2025, Carol J.G. Ward

University of South Carolina researcher Shaun Owens is using remote monitoring technology to support African American seniors with dementia in rural areas—helping them age in place and bridging the healthcare gap.

Topics: Faculty, Research, Health Sciences, College of Social Work

Biomedical engineering faculty member studying the biomechanics of brain injury

April 23, 2025, Chris Horn

Sudden violent impact to the head, the kind that can happen in car crashes, football games and other activities, can shear and stretch brain tissue in ways that are very difficult to see. That’s why USC biomedical engineering assistant professor Ahmed Alshareef is part of a team studying the biomechanics of brain injuries with a goal of understanding exactly what happens dynamically to the brain during concussive events.

Topics: Faculty, Research, Health Sciences, Careers, Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing

USC students excel at interprofessional health event

April 22, 2025, Dan Cook

It’s only been three years since the University of South Carolina began competing in a national competition for students entering health professions — yet it has already placed among the top three competitors twice.

Topics: Students, Research, Health Sciences, Student Voices, Arnold School of Public Health

USC's College of Arts and Sciences renamed following transformational gift

April 22, 2025, Kristine Hartvigsen

The University of South Carolina College of Arts and Sciences has a new name honoring the vision and generosity of a prominent alumnus and his family. The official name, the University of South Carolina McCausland College of Arts and Sciences, was announced on Wednesday (April 23) during a ceremony on USC's Horseshoe.

Topics: Students, Alumni, Faculty, University Leadership, University President, Academics, Recognition, McCausland College of Arts and Sciences

USC MIND club's mental health awareness challenge goes viral

April 21, 2025, Laura Erskine

The Ice Bucket Challenge is back, and a student organization at the University of South Carolina is behind it. In March, USC's Mental Illness Needs Discussion (MIND) club launched the #SpeakYourMIND challenge, which went viral and hit the national news. Who doesn’t love to see videos of friends, family and even strangers getting doused in buckets of ice water?

Topics: Students, Service, Leadership, Student Voices

Remembering the Days --The Colorful History of Gamecock Sports: A conversation with Alan Piercy

April 21, 2025, Chris Horn and Evan Faulkenbury

You can stay up to date on current Gamecock sports through multiple news outlets and platforms, but to delve into the history of Gamecock sports, Alan Piercy is your guy. He writes a blog about Gamecock sports history and has written a book on USC sports during the independent era of 1971-91. He's also contemplating another book on the men's basketball program in the early Frank McGuire era and construction of the Carolina Coliseum in 1968.

Topics: History

USC geographer Jessica Barnes awarded prestigious Guggenheim Fellowship

April 18, 2025, Rose Cisneros

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.

Topics: Faculty, Recognition, McCausland College of Arts and Sciences

Swanger award winner will take service mindset into medical career

April 17, 2025

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.

Topics: Students, Signature Events, Service, Leadership, McCausland College of Arts and Sciences, South Carolina Honors College

Sullivan award-winner dedicated to research, service

April 17, 2025

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.

Topics: Students, Recognition, Signature Events, Service, Leadership, McCausland College of Arts and Sciences, South Carolina Honors College

Sullivan award winner dedicated to health care access in Appalachia

April 17, 2025

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.

Topics: Students, Academics, Signature Events, Service, Leadership, McCausland College of Arts and Sciences, South Carolina Honors College

Student government experience leads two USC seniors to Harvard Law

April 17, 2025, Laura Erskine

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.

Topics: Students, Alumni, Academics, Experiential Learning, Service, Leadership, Student Voices, McCausland College of Arts and Sciences, South Carolina Honors College

Theresa Harrison takes decade of experience into new role at USC

April 17, 2025, Collyn Taylor

Theresa Harrison has spent 15 years at USC serving in a variety of roles, and she's ready for her new challenge to connect students, faculty and staff to the Columbia community.

Topics: Partnerships, Service, Leadership

Discover USC highlights 1,000-plus research projects by students, postdocs

April 14, 2025

Reading through descriptions of the 1,000-plus research projects featured annually at Discover USC, it’s impossible not to be inspired by the passion fueling the wide-ranging research projects. From history to public health, USC scholars — including undergraduate and graduate students, medical scholars and postdocs — work with faculty mentors to explore topics that interest them, learn more about research skills and work on how to present their findings to an audience. Here are a few of their stories.

Topics: Students, Research, Recognition, Signature Events, Student Voices

Gamecock basketball legend A'ja Wilson shares life lessons and plenty of laughs

April 14, 2025, Craig Brandhorst / photos by Kim Truett

Between her jersey retirement and a Nike shoe hitting stores, three-time WNBA All-Star A’Ja Wilson is enjoying a banner year.

Topics: Alumni, Recognition, Leadership, Careers, College of Information and Communications, Carolinian

Cool Classes Fall 2025

April 11, 2025, Téa Smith

We're back again for another year and another round of some of the coolest classes you can take for fall 2025. There are a ton of unique learning experiences waiting to be uncovered. Whether you’re into sports, true crime, dancing, cooking or even something a little otherworldly, South Carolina has you covered.

Topics: Students, Academics, Experiential Learning, McCausland College of Arts and Sciences, College of Education, College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management, College of Information and Communications, University System

Engineering researcher focused on improving manufacturing processes for advanced composite materials

April 09, 2025, Chris Horn

Embedded sensors, edge computing, machine learning and high-fidelity simulations are part of the toolkit for Paul Ziehl and the research team he works with at USC’s McNAIR Center for Aerospace Engineering and Research.

Topics: Faculty, Research, Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing

Neuroscience major wants to focus on brain health in rural areas

April 09, 2025, Téa Smith

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.

Topics: Students, Student Voices, McCausland College of Arts and Sciences

Get ready for graduation

April 09, 2025, Catherine Pruitt

Although it feels far away, the countdown to graduation is on. Spring commencement ceremonies will be held May 8-10 in Colonial Life Arena and other locations around campus. For graduates, we’ve compiled a roundup of what you need to do before then, along with some suggestions for enjoying the rest of your time at the University of South Carolina.

Topics: Signature Events

US News rankings: USC's International MBA remains top in the country

April 07, 2025, Megan Sexton

For the 12th straight year, the University of South Carolina has earned the No. 1 ranking in the country for its International MBA program, according to the 2025 Best Graduate School rankings released April 8 by U.S. News & World Report.

Topics: Faculty, University Leadership, Academics, Graduate Studies, Recognition, Darla Moore School of Business, College of Education, Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing, Joseph F. Rice School of Law, College of Nursing

New Economic Policy Center offers data-driven analysis to state agencies, other policymakers

April 07, 2025, Chris Horn

In a perfect world, state agencies and local governments would implement each new policy and program only after rigorous economic analysis that maps out the cost benefits, potential side effects and hidden costs of choosing one option over another. That data-driven approach to policymaking is the focus of S.C. EPiC, the South Carolina Economic Policy Center based in the economics department of the Darla Moore School of Business at USC.

Topics: Faculty, Research, SC Impact, Darla Moore School of Business

2025 Autism Acceptance Month: USC faculty experts list

April 04, 2025, Communications and Marketing

April is Autism Acceptance Month. The CDC estimates that one out of every 36 eight-year-olds and one in 45 adults is affected by autism, a lifelong developmental disorder. As South Carolina’s leader in health sciences, USC has researchers across disciplines who specialize in autism.

Topics: Faculty, Research, Health Sciences, McCausland College of Arts and Sciences, College of Education, Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing, Medicine (Columbia), School of Music, Arnold School of Public Health, College of Social Work

Excellence Awards, Staff Appreciation Day recognize efforts of USC staff

April 04, 2025, Michaela Taylor

To recognize their hard work and dedication of university staff, USC is hosting two special staff appreciation events during the week of May 19.

Topics: Recognition

The Golden Spur lives on in two campus dining spots

April 03, 2025, Michaela Taylor

The Golden Spur legacy lives on through two new campus dining destinations: The Spur in Campus Village and The Golden Spur at 650 Lincoln. These modern eateries draw inspiration from the original hotspot, blending Gamecock spirit with a fresh take on American fare.

From classroom concept to award-winning AI

April 03, 2025, Gregory Hardy

What began as a student project in Ramtin Zand’s course on neuromorphic computing—an area of computer science that designs artificial intelligence systems inspired by the human brain—has rapidly grown into an award-winning research initiative with real-world applications in education and AI.

Topics: Students, Faculty, Research, Health Sciences, Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing

USC celebrates 2025 Governor's Award for the Arts winners

April 01, 2025, Brandon Pugh

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.

Topics: Alumni, Faculty, Experiential Learning, McCausland College of Arts and Sciences, School of Music

USC neuroscience experts working to understand, improve brain health

April 01, 2025, Communications and Marketing

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.

Topics: Faculty, University Leadership, Research, Health Sciences, McCausland College of Arts and Sciences, Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing, Medicine (Columbia), College of Pharmacy, Arnold School of Public Health

USC has 2 Goldwater scholars in 2025

March 28, 2025, Communications and Marketing

Two University of South Carolina students were awarded prestigious Goldwater scholarships Friday. They are: Linden McGregor, a junior biochemistry and molecular biology major from Lexington, Kentucky, and Michael Pitre, a junior BARSC-MD candidate from West Sayville, New York.

Topics: Students, Academics, Research, Scholarships, Recognition, Student Voices, South Carolina Honors College

Give 4 Garnet reports nearly $1.5 million raised

March 27, 2025, Alexis Watts and Michaela Taylor

Thanks to the generosity of the USC community, Give 4 Garnet reports a preliminary total of nearly $1.5 million and counting raised from 7,942 donors, showcasing the collective power of giving back.  

Topics: Students, Alumni, Faculty

Joffrey Ballet delivers unparalleled experience for USC student performers

March 27, 2025, Kristine Hartvigsen

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.

Topics: Students, Experiential Learning, Initiatives, Student Voices, McCausland College of Arts and Sciences

Video: The Great Gatsby turns 100

March 25, 2025, Hadley McCollester

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.

Topics: Students, Faculty, Experiential Learning, History, Collections, McCausland College of Arts and Sciences, University Libraries

University of South Carolina launches nurse-midwifery program

March 24, 2025, Gregory Hardy

Midwives care for women throughout their lifetime and play a critical role in maternal health. The College of Nursing is launching the state’s only accredited nurse-midwifery education program to address South Carolina’s maternal health needs, particularly in rural communities.

Topics: Students, Faculty, Research, Health Sciences, College of Nursing

Poor neighborhoods, health care barriers are factors for heart disease risk in Black mothers

March 24, 2025, Curisa Tucker

A recent study by Curisa Tucker reveals that living in disadvantaged neighborhoods significantly increases the risk of peripartum cardiomyopathy, particularly for Black mothers, emphasizing the role of social and environmental factors in maternal health.

Topics: Faculty, Research, Health Sciences, College of Nursing, The Conversation

Medical, pharmacy students celebrate Match Day career milestones

March 21, 2025, Gregory Hardy

More than 250 University of South Carolina health sciences students learned where they’ll take the next step in their careers during national Match Day celebrations on March 19 and 21.

Topics: Students, Academics, Signature Events, Health Sciences, Medicine (Columbia), Medicine (Greenville), College of Pharmacy

In the footsteps of Chand Bibi

March 20, 2025, Laura Erskine

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.

Topics: Faculty, Research, History, McCausland College of Arts and Sciences

USC alumna, Marine champions veterans

March 18, 2025, Megan Sexton

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.

Topics: Alumni, Diversity, Recognition, Leadership, Careers, McCausland College of Arts and Sciences

Survive and Thrive: A guide to acing exams with Student Success Center

March 18, 2025, Sydnie Taylor

The specter of finals got you nervous? Take heart. The Student Success Center, located on the Mezzanine Level of Thomas Cooper Library, is open six days a week and ready to help you study smarter, not harder.

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

March 18, 2025, Alexis Watts

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

Topics: Students, Faculty, Experiential Learning, Careers, Student Voices, McCausland College of Arts and Sciences

Board of Trustees approves budgetary items, academic initiatives during March meeting

March 17, 2025, Collyn Taylor

The University of South Carolina Board of Trustees approved a slew of academic initiatives as well as facilities projects across the USC System during its March meeting.

Topics: University Leadership, Initiatives, Partnerships, Campus Construction

USC planning SC's first clinical neurological and rehabilitation center

March 14, 2025, Jeff Stensland

The University of South Carolina is developing a unique clinical neurological and rehabilitation center that will house the Palmetto State’s first standalone comprehensive medical facility dedicated entirely to integrated care of patients with brain and nervous system illnesses.

Topics: Faculty, University Leadership, Research, Health Sciences, Careers

USC psychologist uses mobile EEG to break down barriers to research

March 14, 2025, Laura Erskine

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.

Topics: Faculty, Research, SC Impact, Service, McCausland College of Arts and Sciences

USC Press internship program creating new chapters for student success

March 11, 2025, Alexis Watts

First-generation, low-income students frequently face the difficult choice between earning a paycheck and advancing their careers. The University of South Carolina Press Internship Program is changing this narrative through a paid stipend initiative so that no student misses out on a valuable internship experience because of financial constraints.

Topics: Students, Alumni, Faculty, Experiential Learning, Careers

USC's medical schools work to train, retain key players in medicine

March 07, 2025, Laura Erskine

A primary care doctor is a key player in patient care, but South Carolina is facing a doctor shortage. That’s why both USC’s School of Medicine Columbia and School of Medicine Greenville are prioritizing primary care, with an emphasis on family medicine, thanks to their deans, Dr. Gerald Harmon (Columbia) and Dr. Phyllis MacGilvray (Greenville).

Topics: University Leadership, Graduate Studies, Health Sciences, SC Impact, Leadership, Careers, Medicine (Columbia), Medicine (Greenville)

Remembering the Days -- Reconstruction at USC: A conversation wtih Christian Anderson

March 07, 2025, Chris Horn and Evan Faulkenbury

The story of the Reconstruction era at the University of South Carolina is remarkable. A previously all-white institution admitted Black men, established a Normal School to train Black women to be school teachers and welcomed Black faculty and trustees. Museum of Education director Christian Anderson talks about his ongoing research on that chapter of USC's past.

Topics: History

USC sets new application record

March 06, 2025, Jeff Stensland

USC set a record this year with more than 60,000 prospective students applying for fall 2025 admissions.

World-renowned Joffrey Ballet residency at USC promises unforgettable experiences

March 06, 2025, Kristine Hartvigsen

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.

Topics: Students, Faculty, Academics, Experiential Learning, Signature Events, McCausland College of Arts and Sciences

Dean Tayloe Harding to lead national music accreditation organization

March 06, 2025, Carol J.G. Ward

Tayloe Harding brings more than three decades of experience with the National Association of Schools of Music into his new role as its president to advance the cause of music in American life, establish and maintain accreditation standards and provide a national forum for related issues.

Topics: Faculty, University Leadership, Academics, Recognition, Service, Leadership, School of Music

Nursing student has a global impact on future health care professionals

March 05, 2025, Catherine Pruitt

Allan Cabanayan was a leader among students interested in health occupations even before he got into upper-level nursing classes at the University of South Carolina.  Growing up just down the road from USC in Hopkins, South Carolina, Cabanayan discovered his passion for nursing while attending Lower Richland High School, where he joined his school’s HOSA-Future Health Professionals chapter.

Topics: Students, Academics, Experiential Learning, Health Sciences, Leadership, College of Nursing

Remembering the Days -- A Touch of Faith Gospel Choir

March 04, 2025, Chris Horn

In the decade after USC desegregated, the small but growing number of Black students wanted to establish a sense of belonging on a big campus that was growing bigger every year. In 1975, the Southern Christian Fellowship student group was established with a gospel choir called A Touch of Faith. 

Topics: History

Remembering the Days -- Digging in the dirt with Kelly Goldberg

March 04, 2025, Chris Horn

Kelly Goldberg once spent two summers on an archaeological dig at a Viking settlement in Iceland. Now the Honors College instructor is digging in the dirt right here on USC's Horseshoe, finding artifacts that offer clues to the university's past.

Topics: History, South Carolina Honors College

USC youth summer camps 2025

March 03, 2025, Téa Smith

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.

Topics: Experiential Learning, Initiatives, Diversity, Partnerships, Health Sciences, Campus Construction, McCausland College of Arts and Sciences, Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing, Medicine (Columbia), School of Music, College of Pharmacy

AIs flunk language test that takes grammar out of the equation

February 28, 2025, Rutvik Desai

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.

Topics: Faculty, Research, McCausland College of Arts and Sciences

Spring break ready: Your guide to enjoying your week off

February 26, 2025, Catherine Pruitt

Spring break has arrived once again. Whether you are looking to shake up your daily routine or simply want a brain break, here are some on- and off-campus activities for March 10-16.

Topics: Students

Journey from homelessness to social worker gives alumna insight and empathy

February 26, 2025, Carol J.G. Ward

Renee Shaw’s journey is a testament to courage and perseverance. Now a social worker, she draws from her own experiences with homelessness and hardship to uplift others and to make a meaningful impact in her community.

Topics: Alumni, Graduate Studies, Health Sciences, College of Social Work

Professor explores intersection of AI, advertising and public perception

February 26, 2025, Brandon Pugh

As CIC’s associate dean for research, Linwan Wu is leading the college’s work to understand the influence and impact of artificial intelligence in advertising. Through the first two USC AI Index reports and those to come, he’s helping to evaluate national sentiment on the now-prevalent communications technology.

Topics: Faculty, Academics, Research, College of Information and Communications

Simple activities could be keys to dementia prevention, says public health researcher

February 25, 2025, Chris Horn

Half a million Americans are diagnosed annually with dementia, so finding ways to prevent its onset is a focus of public health researchers, including a University of South Carolina professor who is testing simple techniques for older adults.

Topics: Faculty, Research, Health Sciences, Arnold School of Public Health

School of Medicine Columbia breaks ground on new facility at USC Health Sciences Campus

February 21, 2025, Gregory Hardy

The University of South Carolina broke ground on a facility that will redefine the future of health care education and research during a ceremony on Tuesday, Feb. 25, at the site of its new School of Medicine Columbia. This cutting-edge, 300,000-square-foot-plus medical education and research facility will be part of USC’s transformative $300 million Health Sciences Campus, amid 16 acres in Columbia’s reimagined BullStreet District.

Topics: Students, Alumni, Faculty, University Leadership, University President, Research, Health Sciences, SC Impact, Medicine (Columbia)

Board of Trustees passes resolution, updates Brain Health Center during February meeting

February 21, 2025, Collyn Taylor

The Board of Trustees heard updates on USC's Brain Health Network, Division of Development and Student Health and Well-Being during its meeting Feb. 21.

Topics: University Leadership, Academics, Research

USC's new record label gives students an early start on many aspects of music careers

February 21, 2025, Catherine Pruitt

USC's new record label, Greene Street Records, is giving students a head start on their music careers through hands-on experience.

Topics: Students, Faculty, Experiential Learning, Careers, Student Voices, School of Music

Remembering the Days -- South Carolina's historian, Walter Edgar

February 21, 2025, Chris Horn and Evan Faulkenbury

For more than 40 years, Walter Edgar taught the history of South Carolina to USC students and was a prolific scholar, writing several history books about the Palmetto State. Now retired but still hosting a podcast about state history, Edgar reminisces about his long career at the university.

Topics: History

Remembering the Days -- Stories of the enslaved: Jill Found

February 21, 2025, Chris Horn and Evan Faulkenbury

While a doctoral student in USC's history department, Jill Found searched the university's archives to find clues about enslaved people who worked on the campus of South Carolina College. Those efforts help tell the story of those who for decades were nameless and unrecognized.

Topics: History

Health Watch: Flossing for heart health and reducing stroke risk

February 18, 2025, Gregory Hardy

Oral health isn’t just about your smile—it could help protect your heart, too. A new study finds an unexpected heart health habit can be that regular flossing reduces stroke risk. Dr. Souvik Sen explains why you shouldn't skip out on flossing in the name of heart health.

Topics: Faculty, Research, Health Sciences, Medicine (Columbia)

2024 outstanding student advocate talks career, TRIO, award

February 18, 2025, Thom Harman / photo by Kim Truett

Paulia D. Williams won the 2024 Dennis A. Pruitt Outstanding Advocate for First-Year Students Award, the fourth TRIO staff member to win the award since its inception. Williams knows that most students need some help transitioning to college, especially first-generation college students. She sees it every day in her role with TRIO Programs — and she lived it herself.

Topics: Students, Initiatives

Video: Remembering desegregation at USC

February 17, 2025, Lawson Estridge

A 12-foot bronze statue in front of McKissick Museum on the historic Horseshoe was inspired by a photo taken Sept. 11, 1963, when three African American students exited the Osborne Administration Building after enrolling at the University of South Carolina. We take a look behind the scenes of the creation of the monument dedicated to those brave pioneers who led the desegregation of USC.

Topics: Alumni, Faculty, University Leadership, History

Med students step up to fight childhood cancer

February 12, 2025, Megan Sexton

The Future Leaders in Medicine, a student organization at the USC School of Medicine Columbia, has teamed with Curing Kids Cancer to raise awareness – and funds— for the fight against childhood cancer.

Topics: Students, Alumni, Faculty, Experiential Learning, Graduate Studies, Philanthropy, Health Sciences, SC Impact, Service, Leadership, Student Voices, Medicine (Columbia)

USC Dance Marathon brings out the best in students

February 11, 2025, Allen Wallace

Dance Marathon, the university’s largest student-run philanthropic organization, brings together students from across USC to raise money and awareness for patients and families at Prisma Health Children’s Hospital. The Main Event is Feb. 22.

Topics: Students, Undergraduate Admissions, Initiatives, Philanthropy, Service, Leadership, Student Voices, College of Education, College of Nursing