"As L.A.'S first and preeminent private university, USC has been inextricably linked to the fortunes of this city, evolving with it, identifying with it, proud of our luster as one of L.A.'s crown jewels, and mindful of how our mutually supportive relationship has helped us navigate the waves of difficulty and prosperity alike."
USC President Steven B. Sample
USC and the Urban Landscape
USC is one of a very small number of premier academic institutions in which research and teaching are inextricably intertwined, and on which the nation depends for a steady stream of new knowledge, art and technology. In 1994, in an effort to increase its academic excellence, USC implemented a strategic plan that included an initiative to create innovative interdisciplinary research and education programs that could contribute to the special strengths and opportunities of Southern California and Los Angeles as a center of urban issues. This focus was reaffirmed in the plans that were approved by the trustees in 1998 and 2004.