Messages from President Carol Folt and Board Chair Suzanne Nora Johnson

It is with heartfelt gratitude that I write to share my decision to retire as the president of USC at the end of the academic year on July 1, 2025. Serving as the twelfth president of the University of Southern California is one of the greatest privileges of my life. Working with so many of you to achieve the promise of our incredible Trojan Family brings me joy and inspiration each day. After more than twenty years of leadership at three great universities, however, I am excited to embrace the freedom that comes with a next big leap, and to pass the baton to the next president who will be able to build upon our accomplishments and create a new chapter for this extraordinary institution.

Great ShakeOut Earthquake Drill – October 17, 2024

Southern California has experienced several earthquakes over the past few months. This earthquake activity is a reminder that we must all be prepared and know what to do. Seismologists warn us that a large-scale earthquake is highly probable. We urge all staff to participate in this year’s Great ShakeOut, an international earthquake drill on Thursday, October 17, at 10:17 a.m.

Update on 2025 USC Commencement

With the academic year in full swing, we wanted to share an overview of our upcoming 2025 commencement event schedule. We hope this preliminary information will assist graduates and their families as they start making plans to attend.

Update on how to access USC

We hope you are enjoying the summer, and we look forward to welcoming all of you to the University Park Campus for the start of fall semester. In preparation for the new academic year, we have taken many steps to modernize our campus to ensure a safe, secure environment for our university community, neighbors and guests.  

Campus Access Update

Beginning Monday, the University Park Campus will open one additional access point at Exposition Blvd. and Pardee Way. 

Early Findings from USC Culture Survey

The spring 2024 semester was a challenging time for us and universities across the country. USC’s six Unifying Values are the roadmap that guides our behaviors and charts our path forward.

Training exercise for a safety and emergency preparedness incident on June 12 at HSC

The USC Department of Public Safety regularly partners with other first responder agencies in drills to help law enforcement officials practice working together in response to a critical situation.

Campus Update

Last week, USC’s 141st commencement drew more than 85,000 graduates and guests to the University Park Campus. We thank everyone for adhering to the security and perimeter protocols that helped us ensure a successful and memorable celebration for our graduates, their families, friends, and loved ones.

Campus Update

I am writing to let you know that early this morning DPS, with the assistance of the LAPD, removed the occupiers who had rebuilt their illegal encampment in Alumni Park. The operation was peaceful. Campus is opening, students are returning to prepare for finals, and commencement set-up is in full swing.

Campus Update

Dear Trojan Family,

I’m writing to let you know the steps we’re taking now to ensure students finish their finals in a quiet, safe academic environment – and that our graduating students can enjoy peaceful and joyous commencement ceremonies worthy of their accomplishments.