USC K-9 units earn national recognition
May 21, 2026, Collyn Taylor
The University of South Carolina's K-9 unit took home nine awards this month as part of a national competition.
Press Releases
Newest Udall scholar excels in work across surf and turf
May 12, 2026, Kristine Hartvigsen
Learn about USC's 19th Udall Scholar, Kayla Thompson, a first-generation, science-loving, rugby-playing, future environmental policy advocate. Her journey parallels that of her benefactors in many ways, and this honor motivates her to continually do more.
USC inks licensing agreement for prostate cancer screening tool
May 12, 2026, Andy Shain
The University of South Carolina has agreed to license an algorithm developed by a renowned cancer and nutritional epidemiologist to 20/20 BioLabs, a health sciences company that offers home cancer screening tests.
USC grad Stephen Panus takes steps to honor son after tragedy
May 05, 2026, Thom Harman
Stephen Panus creates ‘Walk On’ scholarship for USC walk-on student-athletes to honor son after tragedy.
Jim Mensch named faculty director of Galen Health Fellows living-learning community
April 29, 2026, Delaney Freistuhler
Mensch currently serves as director of the athletic training program and clinical associate professor in the Department of Exercise Science. With over more than 25 years at the university, he has advanced healthcare education through mentorship, experiential learning, and collaboration.
USC graduates celebrate spring commencement
April 29, 2026, Jeff Stensland
Thousands of graduates from across the University of South Carolina will celebrate May commencement ceremonies beginning Thursday, May 7. USC President Michael Amiridis will deliver remarks at all four baccalaureate ceremonies taking place at the Colonial Life Arena (schedule below). Separate ceremonies also will be held for the Joseph F. Rice School of Law, the two Schools of Medicine and the doctoral graduates.
From segregation to preservation: The story of Florence C. Benson Elementary School
April 24, 2026, Hunter Mutherspaw
The University of South Carolina is restoring Florence C. Benson Elementary School, a former segregated school and one of the last remaining landmarks of the historic Black community of Wheeler Hill. The project aims not only to preserve the building’s structure but also to honor its role in the history of segregation and ensure that the community’s legacy is remembered for future generations.
USC expert on molecular plant genetics named AAAS Honorary Fellow
April 23, 2026, Kristine Hartvigsen
Award-winning professor Beth Krizek has been named an American Association for the Advancement of Science Honorary Fellow. Learn more about her research in plant biology.
Once banned from school, education graduate reflects on completing her Ph.D.
April 22, 2026, Laura Erskine
This spring, doctoral graduate Zo Sediqi will walk across the stage to receive her diploma from USC’s College of Education. As a woman born and raised in Afghanistan in the 1990s, the moment carries special significance: Sediqi is one of only a handful of Afghan women anywhere in the world to earn a Ph.D.
Dawn Staley elected to American Academy of Arts and Sciences
April 22, 2026, Dan Cook
Dawn Staley has been elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. Election to the Academy is a prestigious honor, and Coach Staley joins only three others from USC who are currently part of the academy. Founded in 1780, the American Academy of Arts and Sciences is both an honorary society that recognizes and celebrates the excellence of its members and an independent research center convening leaders from across disciplines, professions and perspectives to address significant challenges.
University of South Carolina names new dean of McCausland College of Arts and Sciences
April 15, 2026, Delaney Freistuhler
The University of South Carolina has named Christopher Culbertson dean of the University of South Carolina McCausland College of Arts and Sciences. He'll assume the role July 1.
University of South Carolina recognized as national leader in advancing first-generation student success
April 14, 2026, Delaney Freistuhler
FirstGen Forward has named the University of South Carolina one of its newest FirstGen Forward Network Champions, an exclusive group of institutions recognized as national leaders in advancing first-generation student success.
Associate vice president and vice provost for AI strategy announced
April 10, 2026, Delaney Freistuhler
Building on the University of South Carolina’s early adoption of ChatGPT and its continued commitment to responsible AI use, Provost Mary Anne Fitzpatrick has appointed Mark Uline as the university’s first associate vice president and vice provost for AI strategy.
Mutual aid and self-sufficiency are key to life near USSR's contaminated nuclear test zone in Kazakhstan
April 08, 2026, Magdalena Stawkowski
Writing for The Conversation, associate professor Magdalena Stawkowski describes her field research at a Soviet-era nuclear test site in Kazakhstan. Thousands still live around its cratered perimeter and stay because of their collective refusal to reject systems that had abandoned them and instead create their own terms for survival.
US News rankings: Nursing graduate program surges into top 20, business remains top public international MBA in the country
April 06, 2026, Collyn Taylor
The University of South Carolina has numerous graduate programs ranked inside the top 20 nationally, including the College of Nursing and the Darla Moore School of Business's international MBA program.
Irresponsible parental gun ownership could become a factor in custody disputes
April 02, 2026, Marcia Zug
Last month Colin Gray became the first parent convicted of murder for a mass shooting his son, Colt, committed in 2024 in Georgia. Critics worry that the decision could lead to parental accountability for a broad range of children’s actions. Law professor Marcia Zug writes about the issue for The Conversation.
USC has five Goldwater Scholars in 2026
March 27, 2026, Collyn Taylor
Five University of South Carolina students earned the prestigious Goldwater Scholarship in 2026. This sets a record for the most Goldwater Scholars at USC in a single year and marks the 34th consecutive year the university has had at least one Goldwater Scholar.
USC Board of Trustees receives master plan updates, formally approves hospital and other projects, honors US and USC anniversaries
March 19, 2026, Andy Shain
The USC Board of Trustees formally approved a number of new construction and renovation projects, including a neurological hospital and rehabilitation center, and received updates on the university’s master plan, including redeveloping the student union and developments on South Main Street. Trustees also adopted a resolution in recognition of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the 225th anniversary of the founding of USC.
The long history of silent meditation retreats
March 18, 2026, Daniel M. Stuart
Silent meditation and silent prayer have shaped spiritual lives within a variety of religious traditions for thousands of years. Today, however, those practices are often being offered in secular settings. Daniel M. Stuart, an associate professor of religious studies at USC, writes for The Conversation about emerging trends in secular meditation practices.
USC team conducting research on endangered North Atlantic right whales
March 12, 2026, Kristine Hartvigsen
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.
Baruch scientists study food impacts of juvenile blue catfish on native species in Winyah Bay estuary
March 06, 2026, Kristine Hartvigsen
Scientists at USC’s Baruch Institute are studying the semi-invasive juvenile blue catfish, normally a freshwater animal, that has appeared in estuarine habitats of the Winyah Bay. The researchers are trying to determine whether the interloper’s diet is interfering with the food supply of native estuarine species.
USC students lead in adopting AI at ADDY Awards
March 04, 2026, Kristine Hartvigsen
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 University of South Carolina students rose to the challenge, showcasing what is possible in dynamic, creative concept and design in collaboration with AI.
USC announces new scholarship partnership with South Carolina Governor's School for Science and Mathematics
March 02, 2026, Jeff Stensland
The University of South Carolina Columbia (USC) and the South Carolina Governor’s School for Science & Mathematics (GSSM) today announced the launch of a new scholarship program designed to support GSSM graduates who choose to continue their education at USC’s Columbia campus.
Michelangelo hated painting the Sistine Chapel
February 23, 2026, Anna Swartwood House
The sale of a small red chalk drawing of a woman’s foot by Michelangelo, which sold at auction for $27.2 million, excited art historians — not because of the money it fetched but because of the attention it has brought to Michelangelo’s lifelong devotion to drawing, a medium he prized over painting. Anna Swartwood House, an associate professor of art history at USC, writes for The Conversation about the significance of the recent sale.
Board of Trustees updated on USC's comprehensive brain health initiative
February 20, 2026, Andy Shain
Sarah Kirby, USC’s associate vice president for clinical affairs, briefed the Board of Trustees on Friday (Feb. 20) on the university’s efforts to develop a comprehensive system of care that could transform health care in the state — a statewide network of brain health clinics, a brain health center and South Carolina’s first stand-alone neurological and rehabilitation hospital.
Is teasing playful or harmful?
February 16, 2026, Molly Dawes
Teasing is a common but complex behavior that can serve pro-social functions, but it can also have anti-social functions and harm the targeted person. Teasing interactions are influenced by factors such as the relationship between teaser and target and the content of the tease. Molly Dawes, associate professor in the Department of Educational and Developmental Science at USC, writes for The Conversation about the complexities of teasing.
USC Brain Health launches student-driven arts program
February 09, 2026, Nicole Carrico
Students Ansley Martin and Stella Tew have been working with USC Brain Health to launch a program called Vibrant Minds, an expressive arts initiative that combines neuroscience, creativity and social interaction to support older adults living with neurological conditions. The program helps adults facing cognitive challenges connect with their memories and each other through art and creative projects.
Forbes names USC one of America's Best Large Employers
February 09, 2026, Collyn Taylor
USC jumped over 100 spots and ranks in the top 20 of the education industry in Forbes' latest rankings of the nation's large employers.
USC School of Music professor wins 2026 Grammy
February 03, 2026, Marlena Crovatt-Bagwell and Brandon Pugh
Bassoon professor Michael Harley and his new-music ensemble Alarm Will Sound snared top honors in Best Chamber Music/Small Ensemble Performance for Land of Winter, a collaborative piece that was also nominated for Best Contemporary Classical Composition. Harley's nomination and another for fellow professor Mak Grgic were the latest of several Grammy nominations for musicians with USC connections.
2026 heart health faculty experts list
February 01, 2026, Gregory Hardy
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.
Winter storms don't have to be deadly
January 30, 2026, Brett Robertson
Winter storms pose multiple dangers at once, and people often underestimate how quickly conditions can become life-threatening. Here is what people need to know to reduce their risk of injury during severe winter weather.
USC earns Carnegie redesignation for community engagement
January 27, 2026, Collyn Taylor
The University of South Carolina has earned 2026 Carnegie Classification for Community Engagement and is one of less than 100 public institutions nationally with Carnegie designations in community engagement and as an R1 research institution.
Video: Center for Civil Rights History and Research Celebrates 10 Years of Impact
January 26, 2026, Hadley McCollester
The Civil Rights movement in South Carolina has long been overlooked and overshadowed. The Center for Civil Rights History and Research has spent the last decade working to document and bring awareness and scholarship to South Carolina's role in the movement. In this documentary, Bobby Donaldson, executive director of the center, takes us through the amazing work done over the past 10 years and what is on the horizon.
5 recognized for social justice work
January 13, 2026, Kristine Hartvigsen
The University of South Carolina has recognized students, faculty and staff members for their work on campus and in the larger community with 2026 Martin Luther King Social Justice Awards. The awards recognize individuals who have exemplified the philosophies of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. through acts of community service, social justice or racial reconciliation.
USC leads the nation in fragile X research and education
January 08, 2026, Bryan Gentry
A new grant from the National Institutes of Health will help USC faculty study fragile X-associated health conditions, which may affect thousands of people in South Carolina, and identify new ways to diagnose and treat the conditions.
USC professor's trailblazing sport entertainment career earns national recognition
December 19, 2025, Kristine Hartvigsen
Sports Business Journal recently named USC senior instructor Susan O’Malley one of the top 125 influential sports business figures of the past quarter-century. Follow her path to stardom.
USC approves key renovation projects
December 16, 2025, Jeff Stensland
The University of South Carolina Board of Trustees gave final approval Tuesday (Dec. 16) to projects designed to reinvigorate several iconic buildings in the heart of the Columbia campus.
Board approves major facilities projects, academic initiatives in December meeting
December 15, 2025, Collyn Taylor
The University of South Carolina Board of Trustees continues to advance USC Next projects. The board issued Phase II approvals for renovation projects to McKissick Museum, Thomas Cooper Library and Barnwell College.
School of Music faculty members nominated for Grammy awards
December 10, 2025, Marlena Crovatt-Bagwell
Ensembles led by School of Music bassoon professor Michael Harley and guitar assistant professor Mak Grgić are nominees for the 68th Annual Grammy Awards to be presented Feb. 1 in Los Angeles. Theirs are the latest of several Grammy nominations for musicians with USC connections.
Engineering professor named National Academy of Inventors fellow
December 09, 2025, Collyn Taylor
Biomedical engineering professor Ehsan Jabbarzadeh became the University of South Carolina's fourth National Academy of Inventors fellow.
USC to award over 3,000 degrees during December commencement ceremonies
December 04, 2025, Collyn Taylor
The University of South Carolina is expected to award 3,154 degrees systemwide as part of its annual fall semester commencement ceremonies this month.
Jonathan Aun's Honors College experience helped shape his successful career path into medicine
November 18, 2025, Chris Horn
As a first-generation student, Jonathan Aun's path to becoming a doctor wasn't easy. In USC's Honors College he found friendships, memories and an environment of support and exploration in which to lead and help others do the same. Whether called Major Aun or Dr. Aun today, he continues to build compassionate connection with his patients — and is a true Gamecock at heart.
USC students and alumni win South Carolina InnoVision Awards
November 14, 2025, Laura Erskine
Six finalists with ties to USC were recognized by the 2025 InnoVision Awards, with three winning top honors. The winning businesses are led by students in the South Carolina Honors College, alumni and graduate students from the Molinaroli College of Engineering, and alumni from the Darla Moore School of Business and the Honors College.
Pair of Honors students named finalists for prestigious fellowships
November 12, 2025, Collyn Taylor
USC has a Rhodes and Marshall finalist in the same cycle for the first time since 2011 with the potential to have a Rhodes recipient for the first time since 2016 and Marshall recipient for the first time since 2009.
Future physician-scientist selected as Marshall Scholarship finalist
November 11, 2025, Valerie Weingart
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.
Social work initiative expands behavioral health care access in rural South Carolina
November 10, 2025, Carol JG Ward
The University of South Carolina’s Rural Occupations Workforce Expansion (ROWE) program trains MSW students to serve in underserved communities, strengthening South Carolina’s rural behavioral health workforce and improving access to mental health care.
USC Veterans Legal Clinic serves dual missions
November 04, 2025, Kristine Hartvigsen
Wounds may take years to fester before a war-weathered veteran seeks help, and often service-related injuries are not visible. Opened in 2018 the University of South Carolina Veterans Legal Clinic has provided legal services to more than 550 clients and experiential learning to community-minded students.
Senior public health major named Rhodes Scholarship finalist
November 03, 2025, Valerie Weingart
A Rhodes scholar embodies academic excellence, strong collaboration and leadership skills, and dedication to working for the good of humanity — all of which describe South Carolina Honors College student and public health major Hannah Brennen. Her research and involvement in the Columbia community throughout her academic career have her poised to become USC's 11th Rhodes scholar and first since 2016.
Parris Island archaeological project spans 40 years
October 28, 2025, Kristine Hartvigsen
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.
Board of Trustees hears numerous updates during October meeting
October 24, 2025, Collyn Taylor
Three USC's Board of Trustees committees heard updates from a variety of units across campus including the Division of Information Technology, athletics and the Palmetto College.
Over 140 USC experts listed as top-cited global researchers
October 22, 2025, Collyn Taylor
The University of South Carolina had 140 total faculty members across 11 different colleges or schools honored on a recent list of the world’s top-cited researchers.
Why are women's shoes so pointy?
October 21, 2025, Michael Watson
While people’s actual feet are rounded on the end, women’s dress shoes often come to a sharp point at the toe. Many people find these pointy shoes uncomfortable. So why do shoe designers keep making them this way? Retailing professor Mike Watson, who researches and teaches fashion design, weighs in.
USC Brain Health opens clinic in Orangeburg
October 20, 2025, Laura Morris
The University of South Carolina opened its seventh Brain Health clinic during a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Oct. 20 in Orangeburg, South Carolina. In partnership with HopeHealth, the clinic will bridge critical gaps in early diagnosis, education and family support.
SEC Food Fight helps raise almost $30,000 for USC food pantries
October 16, 2025, Collyn Taylor
The University of South Carolina community banded together to raise almost $30,000 for food pantries across campus and defeat LSU in the SEC Food Fight.
Unsung ocean fungi have 'superpower' to aid healthy marine environments
October 03, 2025, Kristine Hartvigsen
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.
Most of your actions are driven by habit, not thought
October 03, 2025, Amanda Rebar, co-author
A new study shows that the majority of actions people take in a day are carried out on autopilot. Habitual behavior is made up of the things that we do without thinking, prompted by our environment and learned through repeated enactment. Public Health professor Amanda Rebar writes for The Conversation about the power of habits on our behavior.
Patient-reported outcome measures essential to clinical decision-making
October 01, 2025, Kristine Hartvigsen
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.
USC officially designates center, approves state budget request during board meeting
September 26, 2025, Jeff Stensland
The University of South Carolina’s Board of Trustees met Friday (Sept. 26) and designated a new center for autism research, approved a systemwide state budget request and reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to adopting AI responsibly.
Board of Trustees approves new center, vice president for system affairs during September meeting
September 26, 2025, Collyn Taylor
USC’s Board of Trustees met Friday (Sept. 26) on USC Aiken’s campus, approving numerous academic initiatives – including a new research center and a new vice president for system affairs and community engagement.
Curing Kids Cancer pledge fuels USC, Prisma Health pediatric cancer research partnership
September 24, 2025, Laura Morris
The University of South Carolina College of Pharmacy and Prisma Health Children’s Hospital announced a research collaboration on Sept. 24 aimed at redefining pediatric oncology care in South Carolina. The $5 million pledge from Curing Kids Cancer will fund research aimed at developing and providing access to innovative therapeutics for children with cancer.
USC partnering with Zipcar to provide on-demand access to vehicles
September 24, 2025, Collyn Taylor
The University of South Carolina is partnering with Zipcar, the world’s leading car-sharing network, to offer on-demand access to vehicles to students, faculty and staff on the Columbia campus.
Garnet Apple Award: Meena Khalili
September 12, 2025, Thom Harman / photo by Kim Truett
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.
Kazakhstan studies affirm imperative to secure nuclear storage solutions
September 03, 2025, Kristine Hartvigsen
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.
Baruch researchers investigate impacts of warming waters on shrimp populations
September 03, 2025, Kristine Hartvigsen
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.
USC celebrates record-breaking fundraising year
August 22, 2025, Jeff Stensland
The University of South Carolina secured almost $260 million in private donations, including the largest single gift in university history.
USC continues record-breaking streak in research awards
August 22, 2025, Elizabeth Renedo and Andy Shain
USC's research funding again hit record highs this year, showing the resiliency and prowess of the university's students, faculty and staff.
Board of Trustees approves trio of contracts, advances facilities projects
August 21, 2025, Collyn Taylor
The Board of Trustees was busy Friday, approving three contracts -- including a new athletics apparel deal with Nike -- as well as numerous new projects tied to the USC Next master plan.
USC welcomes students back to campus
August 20, 2025, Jeff Stensland
USC kicked the semester off this week welcoming over 7,800 freshmen with over half of those being in-state residents.
Health Watch: 6 Dangerous Heat Stroke Myths That Could Put Your Health at Risk
August 20, 2025, Gregory Hardy
Rising temperatures are making heat stroke a serious risk in South Carolina and beyond, especially during outdoor activities such as youth sports, yard work, recreation and even work. At USC’s Arnold School of Public Health, associate professor of athletic training Susan Yeargin debunks dangerous myths about treating this life-threatening condition.
University of South Carolina named one of America's Best-In-State Employers
August 18, 2025, Jasmine Hunter
The University of South Carolina was named one of South Carolina's best employers by Forbes.
USC opens new Garnet Station dining hall
August 14, 2025, Collyn Taylor
USC opened its newest dining hall, Garnet Station, with a ribbon cutting ceremony Thursday (Aug. 14). The new hall will feature seven stations and allow for more retail space on the second floor of Russell House.
USC professor holds horror fans spellbound
August 13, 2025, Kristine Hartvigsen
Shapeshifting cryptid creatures lurk in curious places throughout Julia Elliott’s new book, Hellions. Elliott fashions from her imaginative gray matter strong female protagonists who harness their power in unusual ways.
Researchers find evidence for Younger Dryas comet-impact theory in ocean cores
August 13, 2025, Kristine Hartvigsen
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.
History shows why FEMA is essential in disasters
August 13, 2025, Susan Cutter
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.
Elkins receives Order of the Palmetto
August 08, 2025, Thom Harman / photo by Kim Truett
Susan Elkins, the founding chancellor of USC’s Palmetto College, is being awarded the Order of the Palmetto after a career of service in education. The award is South Carolina’s highest civilian honor. Elkins announced that she was stepping down from her role in May. As chancellor, Elkins oversaw tremendous growth at Palmetto College's four campuses around the state as well as in its online offerings.
2025 artificial intelligence faculty experts list
July 31, 2025, Gregory Hardy
University of South Carolina researchers explore how artificial intelligence can be used for advancements in health care, education, manufacturing, energy, disaster management and transportation. They are also helping shape and inform the ethics and policies surrounding these emergent solutions.
Study finds many women who give birth at home feel empowered
July 24, 2025, Kristine Hartvigsen
As the birth of their baby approaches, women often turn to their mothers, sisters or close female friends for comfort and advice — a trusted and time-honored support system. Recent research conducted through the Women’s and Gender Studies Department at the University of South Carolina views this phenomenon through an anthropological lens, confirming the relevance of this bonded group and examining childbirth choices women typically face.
Ethnomusicologist Alexandria Carrico is redefining musicality
July 21, 2025, Faith Militello
Alexandria Carrico is an ethnomusicologist whose work explores the intersection of traditional Irish music and disability studies. She joined the University of South Carolina’s School of Music as an assistant professor in 2020.
Alumnus Josh Dawsey publishes best-selling book on 2024 election
July 17, 2025, Laura Erskine
Josh Dawsey works at the forefront of U.S. politics. He has covered the White House extensively and has twice won the Pulitzer Prize for his reporting with teams from The Washington Post. His new book "2024: How Trump Retook the White House and the Democrats Lost America" tells the story of the tumultuous election season.
USC launches South Carolina's premier center for civic leadership and thought
July 16, 2025, Bryan Gentry
The University of South Carolina is creating a new academic center to promote broad understanding of the core ideals and values that have shaped American government and history.
USC joining Campus Compact network
July 10, 2025, Collyn Taylor
USC is rejoining the Campus Compact network, a coalition of higher education institutions, to enhance its community engagement efforts.
How Internet of Things devices affect your privacy
June 25, 2025, David Sella-Villa
The Internet of Things includes any device that automatically sends and receives data via the internet. But the data from these devices can reveal a lot about the people who interact with them — and about other people near the devices, writes law professor David Sella-Villa for The Conversation.
Board of Trustees approves budget, academic initiatives in June meeting
June 19, 2025, Collyn Taylor
The University of South Carolina's Board of Trustees passed the budget for the 2026 fiscal year while also approving a host of new programs and modifications plus two new centers on campus.
USC trustees approve 2026 budget; no tuition increase for SC residents
June 19, 2025, Jeff Stensland
The University of South Carolina Board of Trustees passed a budget mitigating tuition for in-state students, enhancing academic support for students and investing in energy innovation and health science research.
Germany's young Jewish and Muslim writers are speaking for themselves
June 18, 2025, Agnes Mueller
The consequences of Hamas’ Oct. 7, 2023, attack and Israel’s war in Gaza have reverberated far beyond the zones of conflict. Debate about the war in Gaza feels fraught in Germany, where concerns about rising antisemitism have been used to criticize some Muslim communities. The Holocaust looms over discussions about Israel, with many claiming the country’s sense of historical guilt has made it, until recently, reluctant to criticize Israeli politics.
2025 hurricane faculty experts list
June 13, 2025, University Communications
The Atlantic hurricane season officially began June 1. Researchers at the University of South Carolina are available to discuss multiple aspects of the 2025 hurricane season, including preparation and communication, environmental impact and historical perspectives.
How school choice policies evolved
June 12, 2025, Kendall Deas
School voucher programs that allow families to use public funds to pay tuition to attend private schools have become increasingly popular. School vouchers have a long history in the U.S. Our Kendall Deas weighs in for The Conversation.
USC names new Palmetto College chancellor
June 11, 2025, Jeff Stensland
Craig Wilson will take over as chancellor of USC's two-year campuses and online degree completion program. Wilson has served in positions at the University of Arizona, University of Wisconsin-Platteville, the University of Miami and Miami Dade College.
Is methylene blue really a brain booster? A pharmacologist explains the science
June 10, 2025, Lorne Hofseth
The internet is abuzz with tributes to a liquid chemical called methylene blue that is being sold as a health supplement that enhances cognitive function. Vendors claim it amps brain energy, improves memory, boosts focus and dispels brain fog. A USC pharmacologist weighs in, via The Conversation.
Is AI sparking a cognitive revolution that will lead to mediocrity and conformity?
June 09, 2025, Wolfgang Messner
Artificial Intelligence began as a quest to simulate the human brain. Is it now in the process of transforming the human brain’s role in daily life?
Religious charter schools threaten to shift more money away from traditional public schools
June 06, 2025, Derek Black
The U.S. Supreme Court heard oral arguments on April 30, 2025, in what could be the most consequential case for public education since the court started requiring schools to desegregate in the years following Brown v. Board of Education.
Law school alum Betsy Gray reflects on women in leadership
June 05, 2025, Kristine Hartvigsen
Betsy Gray ('77 law) followed the fearless example of childhood neighbor Jean Toal ('68 law) and others in her decades-long legal career. Today, the highly accomplished founding member of Robinson Gray law firm reflects on change, peer support and the opportunity in daily challenges.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?