Honoring our new graduates
USC’s Class of 2025 celebrated commencement ceremonies last week, highlighted by an evening of spectacle, excitement and just a few tears in the Coliseum. Videos of the events are available online.
(USC Photo/Gus Ruelas)
Top Headlines
Why limit yourself to words of wisdom from just one speaker? Watch the video to see highlights from several of the inspiring addresses that took place during last week’s ceremonies.
The donation from R. Rex Parris and his wife, Carrol, will enable collaboration among experts in engineering, gerontology and stem cell research to find treatments for age-related conditions.
Sophomore Madison Whyte won the 200m and 400m and anchored meet-clinching 4x400m relay.
The historic surgery — the result of years of research at Keck Medicine of USC and UCLA Health — opens the door for improved treatment of non-functioning bladders.
Commencement Honor for a Standout Trojan
Provost Andrew T. Guzman, USC President Carol Folt and Dean Elizabeth Daley of the USC School of Cinematic Arts, from left, present an honorary degree to filmmaker Jon M. Chu during Thursday’s commencement ceremony. Chu, director of films including Crazy Rich Asians and Wicked, is an alumnus of USC’s film school and was the ceremony’s keynote speaker.
Stories from the Class of 2025
After 43 years, former student returns to USC to complete his degree
This spring, Brad Dow is set to receive his bachelor’s degree from USC Marshall — a milestone four decades in the making.
How identical twins took on USC together
Graduating together with degrees in industrial and systems engineering, Gabrielle and Zoe Edwards exemplify the power of shared commitment and mutual support.
Finding strength in movement and faith
Overcoming adversity to find her voice, Raylen Wells is on a journey defined by resilience and belief.
From debate to dentistry
A former debate champion now on the path to transforming health care, Haeseong Lee combines communication and care to make a lasting impact.
Legally blind magician’s amazing journey to graduation
Despite visual challenges, cognitive science major Tyler Gibgot’s talent and determination earned him a place in USC’s Class of 2025, turning obstacles into opportunities.
Making science easier to understand
Human biology major Srikar Kolluru’s vision brought together a community of students and scholars, empowering others through the world of science journalism.
A biomedical engineer inspired by family to make a difference
Driven by her grandfather’s legacy, biomedical engineer Lauren Tomita is creating life-changing solutions for the future.
Beyond the blueprint
Delaney Ryan’s experiences at USC reflect a commitment to creating spaces that resonate with purpose and innovation.
A journalist’s quest for the stories that matter
Through unconventional stories, Divya Subbiah has captured the power of storytelling to change the narrative in journalism.
Computing Without Boundaries
USC is reimagining computing’s role across disciplines—advancing quantum research, championing ethical AI and launching bold initiatives in blockchain and business. This is innovation at the intersection of technology and human insight.
USC Marshall announces Business of Blockchain initiative
Strategic investment accelerates teaching, research and industry engagement, shaping the impact of decentralized technologies across sectors.
Breakthrough procedure opens new opportunities in quantum research
A new USC-developed technique enhances quantum sensing by counteracting the limitation of decoherence, unpredictable behavior caused by environmental noise.
USC Digital Repository powers new AI-driven Holocaust testimony installation
Interactive exhibition will ensure that survivors’ firsthand accounts remain accessible for future generations.
USC Announces Presidential Search Committee, Interim Leadership
The committee will include faculty, staff, students and alumni. Beong-Soo Kim, USC general counsel, will lead the university on an interim basis beginning July 1 after Carol Folt’s retirement as president.
Inside Look: USC Health Sciences Schools
Keck School of Medicine of USC
The Keck School of Medicine of USC is dedicated to improving quality of life for individuals and society by promoting health, preventing and curing disease, advancing biomedical research and educating tomorrow’s physicians and scientists.
Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry of USC
The mission of the Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry of USC is to provide education, scholarship and outreach that improves oral, dental, craniofacial and general systemic health and well-being locally, nationally and internationally.
USC Alfred E. Mann School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences
One of the top pharmacy schools nationwide, USC Mann continues its centurylong reputation for innovative programming, practice and collaboration.
USC Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy
Through innovative research, education and clinical practice, the USC Mrs. T.H. Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy optimizes people’s engagement in the ordinary and extraordinary activities of life.
USC Division of Biokinesiology and Physical Therapy
The USC Division of Biokinesiology and Physical Therapy is committed to transforming how we prepare the next generation of physical therapists to deliver the highest level of care to society. With our longstanding leadership in the field, we are uniquely positioned to develop innovative solutions that integrate our strengths in research, education and clinical service. By leveraging these assets, we can create new value for students, patients and people everywhere.
USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology
The mission of the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology is to promote healthy aging for diverse individuals, communities and societies through leadership and innovation in research, education and practice.
USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work
The USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work champions social justice for the well-being of individuals, families and communities through innovative teaching of evidence-based practice and practice-based skills, pioneering transformative research and cultivating leadership for social change.
University Updates
Useful links to important information.
Around the University
64th USC Architectural Guild Awards
Join USC’s Architectural Guild and the USC School of Architecture for the industry’s premier event celebrating the built environment of Los Angeles. Together, we honor the architects, designers, and builders shaping the city’s past, present and future.
This year’s theme, “Celebrating the Past, Present and Future of Los Angeles,” highlights our dedication to preserving L.A.’s architectural heritage while championing innovation, inclusivity and sustainability. In the wake of recent firestorms that have reshaped our communities, this gathering serves as a call to design with resilience — ensuring a vibrant and enduring Los Angeles for generations to come.
Tuesday, June 3, 5-9:30 p.m.
USC & Techstars Spring 2025 Demo Day
Join us for the USC & Techstars Spring 2025 Demo Day, where 10 innovative startups from our inaugural cohort will pitch live. Meet the founders, explore new ventures and connect with fellow attendees over light food and drinks. Attendance is limited and subject to approval.
The USC & Techstars Digital Economy Program is a 13-week in-person accelerator designed to help pre-seed startups grow and thrive. The program pairs founders with experienced mentors and gives them access to USC’s extensive resources. While open to all industries, the program focuses on startups in bioscience, AI, health care, engineering, deep tech and media technology.
Thursday, June 5, 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m.
