May 19, 2026
Dear Trojan Community,
I write to share that Provost Andrew Guzman intends to step down from his role as provost and senior vice president for academic affairs in order to return to the faculty at the USC Gould School of Law. At my request, he has graciously agreed to continue in his leadership role until I appoint USC’s next provost and chief academic officer.
Although his service has not yet concluded, we owe Provost Guzman an enormous debt of gratitude for everything he has given to USC and our faculty, staff, and students. Since his appointment in July 2023, he has overseen the appointment of seven deans and senior leaders as well as the reappointment of five deans. He has played a critical role in establishing an academic presence at the USC Capital Campus in Washington, D.C., and in driving momentum behind our computing programs. Under his leadership, the university has developed a strong long-term capital plan, reimagined our financial aid strategy, established the Provost-Senate Joint Task Force on Academic Freedom and Responsibility, expanded our summer course offerings for undergraduates, launched a student success initiative, transitioned to a new learning management system, instituted our digital textbook program, and implemented an early-retirement program for faculty.
During an extraordinarily challenging time in higher education, I have greatly valued Provost Guzman’s advocacy for our academic mission, his focused efforts around financial sustainability, his clear and steady leadership, and his wise counsel and support. We will have an opportunity as a community to celebrate Provost Guzman and his contributions at the conclusion of his term.
In the meantime, the search for a new provost has begun, and I will share details about that process soon. For now, please join me in thanking Provost Guzman for his past and continued service to our university.
Sincerely,
Beong-Soo Kim
President