2026 News

USC researchers work to better understand the human brain

Understanding how the brain works and improving outcomes for patients are major priorities for USC researchers. That work gained momentum this year with the opening of the new Brain Health Center, which is just one of the ways the university is concentrating on the brain.

Michael J. Mungo Distinguished Professor of the Year: Jeff Dudycha

From haiku about water fleas to a class designed for dog lovers, biological sciences professor Jeff Dudycha finds unexpected ways to help students understand genomics, ecology and evolutionary biology.

USC alumna Ashley Poston built a career writing magical love stories

Ashley Poston, USC alumna and New York Times bestselling author, shares how magic, romance and a relentless work ethic shaped her writing career.

USC professor wins state's highest scientific research honor

Susan Richardson, Arthur Sease Williams Professor of Chemistry at the University of South Carolina, has been named winner of the prestigious 2026 Governor’s Award for Excellence in Scientific Research.

New USC program will expand access to mental healthcare for autistic youth in South Carolina

The $630,000 Duke Endowment-funded initiative will create a statewide training network for South Carolina mental health clinicians, expanding autism-competent care through online education, mentorship and community partnerships to improve access for families in underserved areas.

Early research on drones used as first responders reveals potential

Law enforcement agencies have used drones in policing for more than a decade, but do drones used as first responders actually improve public safety? USC criminology researcher Scott Mourtgos is helping answer this timely question with groundbreaking studies that examine whether the technology delivers measurable benefits.

Michael J. Mungo Undergraduate Teaching Award: Aaron Vannucci

Aaron Vannucci doesn’t have a sophisticated philosophy to explain his teaching style. He merely points back to his own high school chemistry teacher, who inspired him with his consistent excitement for the topic. Vannucci brings the same enthusiasm to his classrooms, and he is the winner of USC's 2026 Mungo Undergraduate Teaching Award.

After 1776, the founders designed a government that accounts for 'a degree of depravity in mankind'

Donovan Fifield, undergraduate student coordinator for the Center for American Civic Leadership and Public Discourse, wrote for The Conversation about how the earliest defenders of the U.S. Constitution considered the need for checks and balances.

USC professor Julia Elliott wins one of fiction's most prestigious prizes

Known for her fluid, label-defying prose, author Julia Elliott found herself in excellent company last month among a literary cadre of distinct, even unconventional voices. She read the work of her fellow finalists with awe, never thinking she would win. But it was her name announced over the sound system as the winner of the Carol Shields Prize for Fiction for her critically acclaimed, genre-bending short-story collection "Hellions."

USC alumna aims to showcase Gullah roots of iconic American opera

When the lights went down on Charleston’s Dock Street Theatre on June 26, 1970, history was made. It was the first time since its premiere that "Porgy and Bess" had been performed in Charleston. Now, filmmaker and alumna Lauren Waring Douglas is making that production the subject of a new documentary, "When Porgy Came Home."

How Wall Street is shifting electric utilities toward consolidation and profit

A corporate merger forming the largest electric utility in the U.S. is underway. What’s driving this deal and others like it is a rising demand for power to data centers for artificial intelligence systems and a desire to increase corporate profits. Conor Harrison explains in this article for The Conversation.

Research center building ecosystem in autism, neurodevelopmental disorders

From helping to establish a popular undergraduate neuroscience major to attracting millions in research grants, the Carolina Autism and Neurodevelopment Research Center at USC has achieved notable success since its launch seven years ago. And the momentum isn’t slowing. The center’s leadership has ambitious plans to serve more citizens of South Carolina.

USC researchers reveal identity of Revolutionary War soldier discovered at Battle of Camden

John Pumphrey of Anne Arundel County, Maryland, was just 13-15 years old when he enlisted to fight in the Revolution in 1777. Now his relatives know his name, thanks to researchers at USC and forensic genetic geneaologists.

Video: Hot Takes on the American Revolution

Combine five incredible artifacts from the USC libraries special collections with four passionate university scholars, and you get 20 minutes of fun facts, lively debate and intellectual inspiration.

USC's new biology U101 course blends STEM learning with student connection

A new University 101 course for biology majors will connect first-year students with peers, mentors and opportunities in USC's Department of Biological Sciences.

How are Saudis viewing the US-Iran war?

Writing for The Conversation, Political Science Assistant Professor Robert Kubenic collaborates with Alexis Montambault-Trudelle, Postdoctoral Fellow in International Studies, Université Laval, to explore Saudis' opinions on the U.S.-Iran war.

USC names McCausland Chair in Neuroscience to advance brain research

Renowned neuroscientist Kim Tieu will join USC as the inaugural Peter and Bonnie McCausland Distinguished Chair in Neuroscience. As chair, Tieu will work to advance neuroscience research, education and public impact across the state and beyond.

History professor awarded Rome Prize to support research on Jewish life in Renaissance Italy

Andrew Berns will spend the next year at the American Academy in Rome examining how Jewish physicians and scholars in the Renaissance connected medicine, geography and biblical interpretation across the early modern Mediterranean world.

Teaching Award Spotlight: Rachel Mann, Department of English Language and Literature

English instructor Rachel Mann, a recipient of this year's McCausland College Professional Track Faculty Teaching Award, fosters lively, collaborative classrooms where students engage with complex ethical questions and learn to think through them together.

Teaching Award Spotlight: Alison Luscomb, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry

Chemistry instructor Alison Luscomb, a winner of this year's McCausland College Professional Track Faculty Teaching Award, is known for transforming challenging material into engaging learning experiences while supporting thousands of students through innovative course design and a student-centered approach.

Newest Udall scholar excels in work across surf and turf

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.

Celebrating the class of 2026!

Celebrate the University of South Carolina Class of 2026 from the McCausland College of Arts and Sciences through graduate reflections, student stories and next steps after graduation.

Theatre and psychology major combines both disciplines toward future in clinical counseling

After discovering she could pursue both her interests as majors, Rachel Vanek brought together her work in theatre and psychology to build a future focused on helping others.

Behind the beak: The student inside Cocky

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.

Physicist Frank Avignone has fed his scientific curiosity with a steady pursuit of new ideas

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.

Internships help USC students explore their potential

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.

Statistics major finds confidence in the variables

Bennett entered the statistics major wanting to explore what opportunities the field had to offer. She did just that, taking on research projects and internships that showed her a wide range of ways she can make an impact with her statistics degree.

English and biochemistry degrees take graduating senior into health field

At USC, Brayden O'Dell channeled his curiosity into an English and biochemistry double major. He'll used what he learned about the "how" and "why" of human nature as he heads into the biomedical sciences graduate program at MUSC.

Humanities majors lead to path in public health

Blending global perspectives with a passion for equity, Sarah Kouyate turned her majors in international and African American studies into a future in public health and bioethics at Johns Hopkins University.

Retired English Professor David Shields debuts SCETV food show

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 broadened the canvas for Mint Museum CEO Todd Herman

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

For Magdalena Stawkowski, an associate professor in the University of South Carolina Department of Anthropology, the nuclear afterlife of the Cold War has become the cornerstone of her research.

USC names McCausland Chair in Civic Engagement to direct civic leadership center

Christopher Tollefsen will lead the Center for American Civic Leadership and Public Discourse, focused on preparing students for active citizenship and fostering civic engagement in South Carolina.

Study abroad and internships prepared Honors College senior for career in energy policy

After studying abroad and leading hands-on energy efficiency projects, University of South Carolina Honors graduate Ella Michel is launching a career in energy policy.

Class of 2026

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

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.

USC astronomers open the skies at Congaree National Park

USC astronomers bring stargazing to Congaree National Park, supporting dark sky certification and inspiring public interest in astronomy and night sky preservation at the McCausland College of Arts and Sciences.

USC expert on molecular plant genetics named AAAS Honorary Fellow

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.

USC public history program marks milestone anniversary

The University of South Carolina's Public History Program celebrated its 50th anniversary, highlighting its national impact, hands-on approach to training historians and vision for a more community-engaged future.

A grandmother's diagnosis inspires neuroscience senior's path in healthcare

Motivated by her grandmother's neurological illness, neuroscience senior Jane Poinsette aims to pursue medicine to better support patients and families.

University of South Carolina names new dean of McCausland College of Arts and Sciences

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.

Sullivan winner dedicated to improving drug treatments for diseases

A decades-long fascination with life has inspired Rachel Kiser, one of two Algernon Syndey Sullivan Awards recipients, to dedicate her career to improving drug treatments for diseases.

Bobby Donaldson receives Order of the Palmetto

USC historian Bobby Donaldson was awarded South Carolina's highest civilian honor, the Order of the Palmetto, for his decades-long work preserving and elevating the state's civil rights history through research, education and public engagement.

Senior chemistry student turns his degree into a career in cybersecurity

Chemistry senior Christian Ruff's journey from the lab to a cybersecurity role at Mastercard highlights how exploring beyond your major can open unexpected career paths.

AutismConnect serves more than 1,000 people in its third year

AutismConnect at USC brings together researchers, families and providers to support individuals with autism, offering workshops, resources and community through the McCausland College of Arts and Sciences.

Conference will explore civic education as a solution, producing report for South Carolina

University of South Carolina's conference on civic engagement and the constitutional order will bring scholars and campus leaders together to explore civic education, democratic challenges and a new report on civic literacy in South Carolina.

Mutual aid and self-sufficiency are key to life near USSR's contaminated nuclear test zone in Kazakhstan

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.

How a chemist became nationally recognized for studying the biology of plants

Learn how USC professor Beth Krizek transitioned from chemistry to plant biology, earning national recognition for her research on transcription factors and mentoring students at the McCausland College of Arts and Sciences.

USC researchers put humans at the center of the AI conversation

Artificial intelligence can churn out a 2,000-word essay in seconds. It can even replicate some of the world's most famous pieces of art in incredible detail. Could it soon replace human creativity altogether?

Remembering Lacy K. Ford

"History, fairly and accurately told, is a valuable guide. It gives us the opportunity to make better decisions."

Discover USC student Ansley Martin shares innovation

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.

Cool Classes Fall 2026

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.

USC has five Goldwater Scholars in 2026

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.

Design internship leads studio art major to optimistic career outlook

Designing logos, collaborating with artists and working with real clients, USC studio art student Jon Glover is gaining real experience and turning his passion into a creative career path.

Discover USC student Katherine Palmer looks back

Each year, Discover USC presents more than 1,000 research projects covering hundreds of subject areas and students from all areas of the university. We reached out to a student 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.

The long history of silent meditation retreats

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.

Award-Winning USC faculty bring Southern history to life in dance

USC professors Tanya Wideman-Davis and Thaddeus Davis earn national honors, including a 2026 United States Artists Fellowship, for their innovative dance work that brings Black Southern history, memory and landscape to life through performance.

Bringing the buzz back to Greene Street

Student Body Treasurer Ashley Reynolds helps Give 4 Garnet return to the heart of campus.

USC linguist weighs in on Supreme Court case

University of South Carolina linguistics professor, Brandon Waldon, contributed to a U.S. Supreme Court amicus brief in Flowers Foods v. Brock, arguing a commerce law should be interpreted based on ordinary language meaning, a decision that could affect millions nationwide.

USC team conducting research on endangered North Atlantic right whales

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.

Honors College sophomore finds community at USC

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.

Baruch scientists study food impacts of juvenile blue catfish on native species in Winyah Bay estuary

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

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 anthropology team maps historic Black cemetery near former Kinsler Plantation

University of South Carolina anthropologist Terrance Weik is helping to map and preserve Cedar Creek Cemetery in Richland County, with hopes to reveal an untold history of enslavement in South Carolina.

USC to launch hybrid exchange for Russian language learning

A new Hybrid Student Exchange Program, led by Olesya Kisselev, makes study abroad more accessible for USC's Russian language students by pairing virtual exchange with The Arctic University of Norway and a transformative 10-day immersive experience that builds language fluency and confidence.

Passion for photography brings nationally-published freelancer to USC

Freelance photographer Nora Williams, now a second-year MFA candidate at the University of South Carolina, turned a passion for documenting history into a national career and continues to use her work to spotlight underrepresented stories across the American South.

USC youth summer camps 2026

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.

USC chemistry professor to give students nanotech research experience

USC chemistry professor Olja Simoska has earned the prestigious 2026 Cottrell Scholar Award to fund nanotechnology research, giving undergraduate students direct experience designing and conducting novel nanoparticle research.

Michelangelo hated painting the Sistine Chapel

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

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

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.

USC geography chair earns national honor

Many people around the world owe their knowledge of geography, in part, to Jerry Mitchell. For decades, the University of South Carolina geography professor has led and supported efforts to unearth and share the best ways for teaching students about maps, migration, natural resources, energy, weather, climate and more. More than 40,000 teachers in South Carolina received support through his programs, and his international collaborations have reached even more.

2026 Class of McCausland Fellows Announced

The McCausland College of Arts and Sciences announces the 2026 Class of McCausland Faculty Fellows, recognizing six outstanding early-career faculty for excellence in teaching, research and student mentorship at the University of South Carolina.

Former MLB player reflects on returning to USC to complete a degree

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

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.

Remembering the Days -- Native tongue: The history of foreign language learning at USC

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

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.

Data centers told to pitch in as storms and cold weather boost power demand

The government directed data centers to turn on backup generation in parts of the U.S. Conor Harrison, an associate professor of geography in the School of Earth, Ocean and Environment, co-authors this story for The Conversation on how expanding distributed generation could improve grid resilience.

2026 heart health faculty experts list

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.

Biochemistry student builds homes and better antibiotic treatments

Biochemistry junior Ria Kothari combines lab research and service work to make a tangible impact, from designing new antimicrobial compounds to leading USC's Habitat for Humanity chapter.

Video: Center for Civil Rights History and Research Celebrates 10 Years of Impact

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.

National biochemistry society honors USC chemist

University of South Carolina chemistry professor Caryn Outten has been named a 2026 fellow of the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology for her groundbreaking research on fungal infections and iron metabolism, as well as her excellence in teaching and mentoring at the McCausland College of Arts and Sciences.

USC leads the nation in fragile X research and education

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.