Paula L’Ecuyer, PhD, is the 2025 recipient of the Distinguished Alumni Award, which honors graduates who achieve success in their fields, serve their communities, and reflect the values of the college.

Paula earned her PhD in Political Science from the University of South Carolina, where she also taught graduate courses in international relations and political economy. She has since built a distinguished career as a diplomat and national security advisor, known for her ability to lead with compassion and navigate complex global challenges.

She served as Acting and Deputy Foreign Policy Advisor to the U.S. Central Command Commander, helping to shape U.S. policy across the Near East and Southwest Asia. In this role, she played a key part in critical planning for evacuations from conflict zones. She also managed U.S.-Jordan relations during times of crisis, overseeing royal visits and securing major financial agreements, including three sovereign loan guarantees.

Guided by the values of her liberal arts education, Paula has approached her work with empathy, cultural awareness, and strategic insight. Her achievements stand as an inspiring example for students and alumni, showing how education and service can create a meaningful impact on the world.

Gordon Smith, PhD, is the 2025 recipient of the Distinguished Faculty Award, which honors faculty members for their excellence in teaching, research, and service. Throughout more than four decades at the University of South Carolina, Gordon has embodied these values, leaving a lasting mark on the college and its students.

He joined the USC faculty in 1979 as an assistant professor of Political Science, teaching graduate courses on Russian politics, democracy, and legal systems. Over the years, he rose through both academic and administrative ranks, retiring in 2021 as Distinguished Professor Emeritus. Generations of students and scholars have been shaped by his teaching, mentorship, and example.

Beyond the classroom, Gordon held numerous leadership roles, including Interim Dean of the College of Liberal Arts, Associate Dean, Associate Provost, Dean of the Graduate School, Director of the Walker Institute, and, perhaps his proudest achievement, founding Director of the Rule of Law Collaborative. In each role, he championed innovative programs, strengthened faculty support, and advanced the university’s mission of research and service.

Gordon’s career reflects a lifelong dedication to education, civic responsibility, and public service. His impact on USC and its community continues to inspire, making him a most deserving recipient of this honor.

Luke Hodges is the 2025 recipient of the Young Alumni Award, which honors graduates within ten years of earning their degree who have shown outstanding success, service, and dedication to the values of the college.

Luke graduated in 2016 with a BA in English and is now the co-founder of Nine Patch Pictures. His first film, Cashing Out, a story about a forgotten chapter of AIDS-era history, is distributed by The New Yorker and is eligible for the 2026 Academy Award for Best Documentary Short. He is committed to telling powerful queer stories that bring visibility and respect to communities often left out of mainstream film.

His next project, Odd Man In, executive produced by Oscar winner Caroline Waterlow, will premiere on PBS’ Independent Lens in 2026. Like all of Luke’s work, it combines personal storytelling with a strong social message.

A Columbia native and son of former Governor Jim Hodges and First Lady Rachel Hodges, Luke continues to draw inspiration from his South Carolina roots. At USC, mentors like Professor Nikky Finney helped him discover his voice as a writer, artist, and citizen.

Bruce Baganz, PhD, is the 2025 recipient of the Distinguished Service Award, which honors individuals who have made a lasting impact on the college through their leadership, contributions, and dedication.

Bruce earned both his M.S. (1975) and PhD (1979) in geology from the University of South Carolina before building a successful career as President and CEO of Security Energy Company. Beyond his professional achievements, he has been a transformational leader in the arts, most notably through his work as President of the Textile Museum in Washington, D.C. Under his leadership, the museum’s endowment grew from $6 million to over $83 million, while its programs, facilities, and public reach flourished.

An internationally recognized collector of antique rugs and textiles from Central Asia, the Middle East, and Africa, Bruce has shared his expertise and personal collection through exhibitions nationwide. He is currently preparing a landmark publication on Central Asian suzani embroideries.

In 2024, Bruce and his wife, Terry, established the Bruce P. and Olive W. Baganz Geology Field Camp Endowed Fund to expand opportunities for USC students. His generosity ensures future generations can share the defining experience of field camp.