A Message of Gratitude
USC President Beong-Soo Kim has words of thanks to the Trojan Family upon being named president: “I couldn’t be more thrilled by the opportunity to continue this work of advancing USC’s mission and impact.”
(USC photo)
‘Be bold and daring’: USC President Beong-Soo Kim delivers his first State of the University addresses
Less than a week after the “interim” tag was removed from his title, Kim shared his vision of the university’s future with audiences at the University Park and Health Sciences campuses.
Top Headlines
Trojans are inspired as women in professional sports share their stories of success.
A new USC Libraries exhibition and slate of public programs look back at how the spirit of ’76 intersected with activism in and around Los Angeles.
A visionary leader, Kim will advance the university’s national and global excellence. He has led USC as interim president since July.
After a devastating marine heatwave hit the Florida Keys in 2023, USC Dornsife coral biologists are collaborating with nationally esteemed marine labs to save the troubled reefs.
A Place for Dialogue
USC and other institutions of higher learning have historically played as forums for critical thought, discussion and research about democracy, government and more.
Something for Everyone
Under USC President Beong-Soo Kim’s leadership, the university has launched forums, events and other opportunities for the Trojan Family — including students, alumni, faculty and staff — to peacefully and thoughtfully engage on issues that may divide or unite specific communities.
Beong-Soo Kim and Arnold Schwarzenegger talk civil discourse at International Day of Democracy event
STORY, VIDEO and PHOTOS: In conversation with USC’s interim president, the former governor of California exhorted students to lean into “people power.”
Books on democracy — and a string quartet, too
USC Interim President Beong-Soo Kim shares his recommendations for written and musical works that shed light on democratic values.
Longtime donor’s gift establishes Center for Civic Society at USC Schaeffer Institute for Public Policy & Government Service
The gift by USC Trustee Leonard D. Schaeffer creates center to bolster democracy and strengthen civic trust at home and abroad.
USC Price launches Center on National Defense and Public Safety
The new research center seeks to close gaps between civilian and military professionals to better coordinate responses to disasters.
A Culture of Conversation
From government service internships to campus programs that strengthen free expression and respectful debate, these stories highlight how Trojans practice democracy and civil discourse every day.
USC’s Open Dialogue Project Helps Trojans Practice Respectful Debate
The USC Open Dialogue Project fosters a campus culture grounded in academic freedom, free expression and open discourse. Programs include Speak Free USC, You Decide, and faculty workshops designed to support constructive conversations in and beyond the classroom.
USC hosts founding-era documents from the National Archives
USC will host the National Archives and Records Administration’s “Freedom Plane National Tour: Documents That Forged a Nation” from April 17 to May 3 at the USC Fisher Museum of Art, featuring rare founding-era documents, including an 1823 engraved copy of the Declaration of Independence.
Government Internships That Train the Next Generation of Public Servants
The Leonard D. Schaeffer Fellows in Government Service program places undergraduates in high-level government internships and provides a stipend to reduce financial barriers. Each year, 50 fellows are selected across five universities, including USC.
A Practical Blueprint for Civil Dialogue Across Differences
USC’s Center for the Political Future bridges academia and practical politics through respectful, fact-based dialogue and civic engagement. The center is led by Bob Shrum, a veteran Democratic strategist, and Mike Murphy, a veteran Republican strategist, who serve as co-directors.
What President Kim Is Reading and Listening to on Democracy
President Kim shares books and musical works that inform his perspective on democratic values, academic freedom and respectful dialogue across differences.
A USC Course That Connects Breaking News, the First Amendment and Democracy
In a course taught by Geoffrey Cowan, students examine journalism through history, law, politics, technology, ethics and pop culture, and discuss how a free press supports democratic life. The class is open to students from majors across the university.
Spotlight: USC Bovard College
Over the past 10 years, USC Bovard College has emerged as a globally recognized innovator in online education for working professionals. Through industry-engaged faculty, cutting-edge technology and a student-centered learning experience, Bovard College equips lifelong learners with the skills and expertise employers are seeking today — and in the future. Entering its next decade, the college continues to evolve alongside rapidly changing fields, supporting graduates at every stage of their professional journeys.
Around the University
A Century of Black Commemoration: Preserve, Promote, Protect
Celebrate Black History Month at USC’s SC Family Reunion Celebration, welcoming students, faculty and staff for cultural performances, remarks, refreshments and community connection at McCarthy Quad on the University Park Campus. The event will include remarks from Provost Andrew Guzman.
Wednesday, Feb. 25, 12-2 p.m.
Arts + Health: A USC Arts Now Symposium
Discover how the arts intersect with health, medicine and wellness at USC’s first Arts + Health symposium. Held at Ginsburg Hall, the half-day event brings together USC faculty, researchers, artists, healthcare professionals and community partners for panels, lightning talks, demonstrations and performances exploring arts-based innovation in healing and care.
Admission is free; reservations required. Lunch provided while supplies last.
Monday, Feb. 23, 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m.
