Amanda Fairchild named faculty director of Capstone Scholars program
May 18, 2026, Delaney Freistuhler
Amanda J. Fairchild has been named faculty director of the Capstone Scholars Program, effective May 16.
Recent Stories
Community Driver
May 13, 2026, Megan Sexton
After earning her degree in sport and entertainment management, she went directly into Georgetown University’s sports industry management master’s program. Then she found her passion with the Washington Commanders. Greenfield focuses on innovative ways to create value for both new and existing sponsors — developing go-to-market strategy, examining industry-wide best practices, building sponsorable platforms across the business and working with internal and external constituents across the NFL.
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.
Behind the beak: The student inside Cocky
May 09, 2026, Michaela Taylor
Before the crowd sees him, there’s a quiet shift. The suit goes on. The posture changes. And Brayden Hensley becomes Cocky. To fans, Cocky is all energy and antics. But inside the suit is a criminology and criminal justice major balancing school and a role that demands constant performance.
Physical education course prepares students for triathlons and life after college
May 08, 2026, Chris Horn
Joe Roof’s students had been preparing for their final test all semester: a modified triathlon super sprint. The students completed 200 meters swimming followed by seven miles pedaling on indoor spin bikes and two miles jogging on the Blatt practice field. It was the perfect ending to an elective physical education class called Triathlon Training.
Reading between the feathers: How two students turned a mascot role into years of service
May 08, 2026, Michaela Taylor
You may know Cocky from game day at Williams-Brice, but some of his biggest fans sit on classroom floors, not stadium seats. Behind the yellow beak are two seniors who’ve been involved with Cocky's Reading Express for the last four years. Meet Walker Weaver and Emma Connelly.
Carolina Band records for video game, masters Metallica
May 08, 2026, Craig Brandhorst
The University of South Carolina marching band won the 2025 EA Sports Metallica Collegiate Edition Marching Band Competition, a one-time chance to record a new arrangement of an iconic Metallica song for the next iteration of EA Sports popular College Football video game.
Internships help USC students explore their potential
May 07, 2026, Laura Erskine, Téa Smith and Craig Brandhorst / photos by Kim Truett
Internships aren’t just for building resumés. When students take that first big step into their chosen career, the hard work of college begins to pay off. We spoke to nine student interns from across the USC system to find out what they've gained beyond the books from their internship experiences.
Physicist Frank Avignone has fed his scientific curiosity with a steady pursuit of new ideas
May 07, 2026, Chris Horn
Frank Avignone has been fascinated by physics longer than most people have been alive, an intense curiosity that began in the waning days of World War II. Now, more than six decades after being recruited to the faculty of USC’s Department of Physics and Astronomy, Avignone continues to conduct particle physics research with renowned scholars, some of them at international laboratories he helped build decades ago.
Interior designer Amber Guyton's Blessed Little Bungalow brings home the joy
May 06, 2026, Rebekah Friedman
Bold colors. Bright ideas. Big dreams. Interior designer Amber Guyton turns ordinary houses into joyful homes.
Landscape designer Beau Welling also promotes an Olympic sport...curling
May 06, 2026, Thom Harman
When Beau Welling isn’t designing golf courses, he’s planning other spaces. And when he’s not doing that, he’s . . . promoting curling?
New programs equal new opportunities at the College of Information and Communications
May 06, 2026, Rebekah Friedman
USC’s College of Information and Communications is giving students more choices through its newest academic programs. Several students explain how these new offerings are preparing them for technologies and careers of the future.
Retired English Professor David Shields debuts SCETV food show
May 06, 2026, Craig Brandhorst
Retired professor David Shields is pouring his research skills and foodways connections into a new SCETV program with chef, educator and cohost Kevin Mitchell. The Savers of Flavor, produced and directed by filmmaker Ginger Cassell, debuted this spring.
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.
Parking and Transportation Services staff earn international recognition
May 05, 2026, Hunter Mutherspaw
The University of South Carolina’s Parking and Transportation Services department continues to gain international recognition for its leadership, innovation and commitment to excellence in campus mobility.
USC broadened the canvas for Mint Museum CEO Todd Herman
May 05, 2026, Craig Brandhorst
Renaissance man Todd Herman fell in love with art history before he got to grad school. The master’s program at USC helped him make it a career.
The nuclear afterlife of the Cold War in the Eurasian Steppe has become the cornerstone of anthropologist Magdalena Stawkowski's research
May 04, 2026, Craig Brandhorst
USC anthropologist Magadalena Stawkowski spent years interviewing the people who live near the Semipalatinsk nuclear test site in rural Kazakhstan. Her 2025 book, “Atomic Collective”, examines culture and community in one of the most toxic places on Earth.
Doctoral student gains systems engineering perspective through Scout Motors partnership
May 01, 2026, Chris Horn
This past fall, Scout Motor’s chief technology officer Burkhard Huhnke was the lead instructor for Applied Systems Engineering for Complex Systems, a class offered through the Molinaroli College’s new industrial engineering program. Ph.D. student Austin Harper shares how the course taught him about sophisticated technology and design processes, including those Scout will use at the new plant.
Connecting the dots: Alumna Stephanie Kyle thrives in global supply chain and beyond
May 01, 2026, Dan Cook
From an early age, Stephanie Kyle had an appreciation for people from all over the world. She entertained thoughts of traveling far from South Carolina for college, but everything changed when she toured USC. As a student, she traveled widely and got involved in student organizations focused on global business and supply chain. Today, she is pricing director at a major global company.
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.
Dr. Phyllis MacGilvray appointed dean for School of Medicine Greenville
April 29, 2026, Dana Woodward
As dean, Dr. MacGilvray says that she is looking to foster a culture rooted in service, compassion, inclusion and dedication to excellence in medical education and research.
Balancing the books: First-gen student navigates pathway to accounting major
April 28, 2026, Chris Horn
What happens when a first-generation college student seeks advice from an instructor who was also a first-gen student? “Inspiration,” says Michelle Ayala-Perez. A conversation with an accounting instructor emboldened Ayala-Perez to explore changing her academic major. She is now enrolled in the accounting program at the Darla Moore School of Business and has her sights set on a career path that seems to have chosen her.
Class of 2026
April 27, 2026, Megan Sexton
As the Class of 2026 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.
A moment to slow down: USC poets on why poetry matters
April 27, 2026, Delaney Freistuhler
USC poets describe poetry as a powerful, accessible way to slow down, process experiences, and connect through language and shared human emotions, regardless of one’s background or path to it.
McKissick Museum reimagined for the future of USC
April 27, 2026, Hunter Mutherspaw
McKissick Museum at the University of South Carolina is set for a major renovation beginning in 2027, transforming the historic Horseshoe landmark into a dynamic hub where collections, classrooms and student life intersect.
VEX Robotics helps launch summer campers into robot competition and beyond
April 24, 2026, Chris Horn
Now in its 20th year at USC, the VEX Robotics camp offers middle and high school students the opportunity to develop skills in programming, mechanical design and teamwork. The summer program also serves as a gateway to competitive robotics teams and, sometimes, enrollment in the Molinaroli College. For alum Nathanael Oliver, it was as pathway to both.
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 trustees approve contracts, stadium bond financing
April 23, 2026, Andy Shain
The University of South Carolina Board of Trustees met Friday (April 24) at Gateway 737 and approved several contracts and stadium bond financing.
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.
USC campuses must meet digital accessibility standards
April 21, 2026, Communications and marketing
The U.S. Department of Justice has finalized a rule under Title II of the ADA requiring public institutions to meet updated digital accessibility standards. The rule applies to all USC campuses and covers all digital content and services. Each unit is accountable for ensuring its digital content is accessible. Tools and training are available to help units.
Celebrating Earth Day: Inside how Carolina Food Co. is advancing sustainability at USC
April 21, 2026, Hunter Mutherspaw
This Earth Day, Carolina Food Co. highlights its efforts to advance sustainability at USC through food waste reduction, recovery, and composting.
Students dig in on research, present findings at Discover USC
April 20, 2026, Marketing and communications
Every year, USC students and scholars from a variety of backgrounds and academic disciplines come together to present at Discover USC. The conference features 1,000-plus research projects. Undergraduates, graduate students, medical scholars and postdocs work with faculty mentors to hone their research skills and learn to present their findings. We talked with a few of the presenters.
A Caregiver Story: Laura Haynes and USC's Brain Health Network
April 17, 2026, Bree Burchfield
Laura Haynes shares her personal caregiving journey as her mother faces memory loss, highlighting how the University of South Carolina’s Brain Health Network is expanding access to neurological care and support for families across the state.
Swanger award winner dedicated to fostering student success across campus
April 16, 2026, Collyn Taylor
Evey Konstantopoulos, the 2026 Steven N. Swanger Award recipient, has spent her entire college career as a resource for others and a leader across campus.
Sullivan winner ready to improve disease treatments
April 16, 2026, Collyn Taylor
A decades-long fascination with life has inspired Rachel Kiser, one of two Algernon Sydney Sullivan Awards recipients, to dedicate her career to improving drug treatments for diseases.
Sullivan winner dedicated to service, community improvement
April 16, 2026, Collyn Taylor
Leadership and service is at the heart of everything Santiago Avendaño Palacio, one of two Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award recipients, does.
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.
Remembering the Days -- Batter up: The Story of Softball at USC
April 13, 2026, Evan Faulkenbury
The modern era of Carolina softball began in 1974, but the history of softball on campus actually goes back to 1936 when it was part of men's physical education. Take a seat in the bleachers for few minutes to learn how it became a women's varsity sport — and made it to the College World Series in the first season!
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.
USC's McBryde Hall nears demolition after 70 years of student life
April 08, 2026, Hunter Mutherspaw
A longtime fixture of campus life, McBryde Hall will be demolished as part of USC’s 10-year master plan. In its place, a new housing development will bring more beds and updated facilities to the heart of campus.
Public health junior finds joy in serving her community
April 06, 2026, Téa Smith
Alina Tofiqul always wanted to work in health care, so she initially chose to major in neuroscience but realized early on it wasn’t the right path for her. After joining a pre-health fraternity on campus, she decided to pursue public health.
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.
School of Medicine scientist explores new approach to treating blood clot-induced lung tissue damage
April 02, 2026, Chris Horn
Blood clots in the lungs are a leading cause of cardiovascular-related deaths. But what if gene editing, made possible through ultra-small nanoparticles, could effectively treat clot-induced tissue damage? For USC School of Medicine Columbia scientist Colin Evans, the question is no longer hypothetical.
Discover USC student Ansley Martin shares innovation
April 02, 2026, Marketing and communications
Each year, Discover USC presents more than 1,000 research projects covering hundreds of subject areas by students from all areas of the university. We reached out to students who previously participated to learn what the experience is like. Neuroscience junior Ansley Martin shares how presenting has helped her bring greater innovation to her research.
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.
Making her voice heard: Researcher Peiyin Hung strives to improve rural health disparities
April 01, 2026, Laura Erskine
When Peiyin Hung talks about her path to public health, she comes back to the day her grandmother told her to study hard so her voice will be heard. That seed of passion, planted in a hospital hallway in Taiwan, eventually led Hung to the Arnold School’s Rural Health Research Center, where she continues to grow her research efforts.
Social work alumna finds purpose in helping first responders
March 30, 2026, Rebekah Friedman
First responders train for what happens in moments of crisis. Others train for what happens after, when first responders need help grappling with what they have seen. That includes LaQuita “Keke” Cowart-Drayton, a 2013 USC College of Social Work alumna.
Fostering HOPE, one limb at a time
March 27, 2026, Catherine Pruitt
Hands on Prosthetic Engineering, better known as HOPE, is a student-run non-profit organization at USC that works to build prosthetic limbs at no cost for those in need.
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.
Cool classes fall 2026
March 27, 2026, Téa Smith
We’re back again for another year and another round of some of the coolest classes you can take for fall 2026. 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.
Give 4 Garnet reports nearly $1.3 million raised
March 26, 2026, Alexis Watts and Michaela Taylor
Thanks to the generosity of the USC community, Give 4 Garnet reports a preliminary total of nearly $1.3 million and counting raised from 6,250 donors, showcasing the collective power of giving back.
Discover USC student Katherine Palmer looks back
March 24, 2026, Marketing and communications
Each year, Discover USC presents more than 1,000 research projects covering hundreds of subject areas by students from all areas of the university. We reached out to students who previously participated to learn what the experience is like. Psychology senior Katherine Palmer reflects on what she gained from presenting her research on misophonia.
Remembering the Days -- A living room for students: The Russell House turns 70
March 24, 2026, Evan Faulkenbury
Seventy years ago, USC built a student union building — the Russell House — which quickly became a hub for student activity and remains so today. The story of the Russell House is actually a collection of stories about student life on campus across the decades.
Eagle Scout Ashley Chittum came to USC ready for challenges
March 23, 2026, Chris Horn
Since earning her Eagle Scout badge five years ago, Ashley Chittum has been prepared for whatever adventures come her way. That includes being the first in her family to go to college and, in her sophomore year at the University of South Carolina, studying abroad for a semester in Australia.
Medical, pharmacy students celebrate Match Day as careers take shape
March 20, 2026, Gregory Hardy
More than 200 University of South Carolina health sciences students reached a major milestone, learning where they will continue their training during national Match Day celebrations on March 18 and 20.
From pancakes to South Korea, Breanna Price's collegiate experience has been far ranging
March 20, 2026, Chris Horn
Junior international business major Breanna Price is making the most of her time on campus — and across the world as an exchange student in South Korea. She is also building confidence through student organizations like Pancakes for Parkinson’s.
USC expands access to healthier options through new vending pilot program
March 20, 2026, Hunter Mutherspaw
The University of South Carolina’s new Healthy Vending Initiative is bringing more nutritious, affordable snack options to high-traffic campus locations. Developed with student input, the spring 2026 pilot aims to make healthier choices more convenient for students, faculty and staff while supporting overall campus wellness.
Board briefs: USC trustees approve projects, receive master plan update, honor US and university anniversaries
March 19, 2026, Andy Shain
What the USC Board of Trustees approved at their March meeting — including new construction and renovation projects, various contracts, academic changes, and housing and meal fees.
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.
Major renovation of Memorial Rose Garden beside Lieber College now complete
March 19, 2026, Chris Horn
The University of South Carolina along with the Carolina Garden Club unveiled a new rose garden pavilion in the Memorial Rose Garden, a celebration of the decades-long partnership between the university and the club.
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's new Brain Health Center brings leading-edge brain imaging, cognitive care under one roof
March 17, 2026, Gregory Hardy
USC marked a major milestone in providing specialized cognitive care at a ribbon cutting for its Brain Health Center on the Health Sciences Campus on Wednesday. The facility is designed to deliver exceptional diagnostic, treatment and support for patients living with cognitive conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.
Bringing the buzz back to Greene Street
March 16, 2026, Alexis Watts
Student Body Treasurer Ashley Reynolds helps Give 4 Garnet return to the heart of campus.
Remembering the Days -- Out on a high note: USC and Greene Street United Methodist Church
March 13, 2026, Chris Horn
Nearly 60 years ago, USC and the Greene Street United Methodist Church were caught up in a legal battle over whether the church's building could remain standing in the path of the university's campus expansion. Decades later, they crafted an elegant solution.
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.
USC, Prisma Health partner to improve neurological care in South Carolina
March 11, 2026, Jeff Stensland
The University of South Carolina and Prisma Health are partnering to provide specialized care for patients with complex neurological conditions at the new Brain Health Center in Columbia. The center will expand statewide access to advanced technology, expert care teams and innovative treatments.
Honors College sophomore finds community at USC
March 11, 2026, Téa Smith
Honors College sophomore Faith Fitzgerald wasn’t sure how or if she could merge her interests in psychology and linguistics. It wasn’t until she was introduced to psycholinguistics, or the study of the relationships between linguistic behavior and psychological processes, that she discovered a new path.
Alyson McGregor aims to change how medical educators teach women's health
March 06, 2026, Laura Erskine
Medicine’s understanding of women’s health lags behind men’s. At USC, researchers in multiple fields are working to address the women’s health care gap. One of them is Alyson McGregor, an emergency medicine physician, professor and associate dean at the School of Medicine Greenville and an expert in sex and gender.
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 alum assumes command of nation's largest naval base
March 04, 2026, Andy Shain
Captain Ray Glenn, a 1999 Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing graduate, assumed command of Naval Station Norfolk, the largest naval base in the United States.
Learn how to amplify your expertise by writing for The Conversation
March 03, 2026, Gregory Hardy
University of South Carolina researchers can share their scholarship with national and global audiences through The Conversation, a nonprofit news outlet that pairs scholars with professional editors and syndicates stories worldwide. Learn how to get involved when their representatives visit campus March 25–26.
Get graduation ready
March 02, 2026, Catherine Pruitt
Spring commencement ceremonies are quickly approaching. We’ve compiled a roundup of deadlines, events and reminders graduates should be aware of before the big day.
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.
Hitting the slopes can boost your brain -- if you protect it
February 24, 2026, Gregory Hardy
Skiing can be both a thrill and a full-brain workout. USC exercise science chair Shawn Arent explains how downhill skiing sharpens cognition, why concussion risks are higher than many people realize and simple steps that can protect your brain before you hit the slopes.
USC youth summer camps 2026
February 24, 2026, Marketing and communications
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.
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.
History doctoral student Kay Andrea documents the untold stories of women in motorcycling
February 19, 2026, Rebekah Friedman
When she’s not riding her Harley, Karan “Kay” Andrea explores the role women have played in motorcycle culture. The first-year Ph.D. student has also built a community where female motorcyclists can connect and develop confidence.
Finding new uses for old drugs
February 19, 2026, Page Ivey
Longer lifespans mean more diagnoses of Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Researchers at USC’s College of Pharmacy are combining their expertise in data science, artificial intelligence and pharmacology to identify potential connections between existing treatments for chronic illnesses and neurocognitive disease.
Arnold School researcher studies how to improve food security through nutrition assistance programs
February 18, 2026, Megan Sexton
When a pediatrician told researcher Elizabeth Adams about the barriers patients faced while trying to access food, it sparked an idea. Now, Adams is leading a pilot study to test strategies for making healthy foods more accessible.
Video: What is inside a battery?
February 17, 2026, Hadley McCollester
Batteries are part of our everyday lives, but not many of us think about how they work or what they are made of. For researchers at the Lab for Materials Properties and Structures, these questions are a full time job. Golareh Jalilvand and her team at USC's Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing are dedicated to testing alternative battery materials such as lithium iron phosphate that will help make batteries a part of the country's sustainable future. This documentary explains why for batteries, it's what's inside that counts.
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.
Public health researcher uses ArcGIS to map rural health disparities
February 16, 2026, Laura Erskine
On average, rural residents live farther away from hospitals compared to urban residents. Cassie Lewis Odahowski, assistant professor of public health, says those longer distances can lead to worse health outcomes. As a researcher for the Arnold School’s Rural Health Research Center, Odahowski studies access-to-care issues for rural communities using an advanced mapping tool available at USC.
USC Dance Marathon works to build brighter days
February 12, 2026, Allen Wallace
On Feb. 21, a year's worth of work culminates with USC Dance Marathon’s 14-hour Main Event. More than 1,000 students will join the year-round team of 400-plus for a full day of interactive activities, performances and educational programming centered around the Miracle Families and supporting Columbia's children's hospital.
Former MLB player reflects on returning to USC to complete a degree
February 12, 2026, Chris Horn
After winning an Olympic gold medal, enjoying a long MLB playing career and working as a coach, Adam Everett came back to the University of South Carolina in 2017 to finish his degree through Palmetto College.
Carolina Day 2026 at the State House highlights USC's impact
February 11, 2026, Andy Shain
University of South Carolina alumni and advocates will gather at the S.C. State House for Carolina Day Feb. 17 to demonstrate how the state flagship is building momentum in producing a more prosperous and healthier South Carolina.
Pathway to first-year success: Teagan Thomas
February 10, 2026, Chris Horn
Teagan Thomas is enrolled in the 2025-26 cohort of Palmetto Pathway, a bridge program that began in 2019. Like all other students in the program, the Summerville, South Carolina, freshman is enrolled through USC Lancaster but lives in Bates residence hall on the Columbia campus and attends classes exclusively with other Palmetto Pathway students.
Remembering the Days -- Native tongue: The history of foreign language learning at USC
February 10, 2026, Evan Faulkenbury
Since Carolina opened its doors in 1805, foreign language learning has been an essential part of its curriculum. Classical languages — Latin and Greek — are still taught, but they're now among a much larger group of languages offered, along with many opportunities for students to put their foreign language skills in practice.
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.
Understanding USC's Undergraduate Interdisciplinary Certificate programs
February 09, 2026, Catherine Pruitt
USC's undergraduate interdisciplinary certificates allow students to focus on skills their major may not cover and make them more prepared for careers after graduation. Take a look at certificates offered and learn more about how to pursue them.
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.
Pathway to first-year success: Samantha Hinton
February 09, 2026, Chris Horn
Samantha Hinton is on track to graduate from USC in May with a bachelor’s degree in advertising. Hinton started out at Carolina in Palmetto Pathway, a bridge program for freshmen. Palmetto Pathway students are enrolled through USC Lancaster but live in a residence hall on the Columbia campus before transitioning to USC Columbia after their first year.
Gamecock nurses lead the way in health care delivery
February 09, 2026, Megan Sexton
From faculty members inventing new tools to help students learn the intricacies of treating heart defects in infants to opening up pathways to nursing careers for people with disabilities, the University of South Carolina College of Nursing is stepping up every day.