Love and marriage?
July 07, 2025, Page Ivey
Law professor Marcia Zug explores the history of marriage as a legal institution in her book "You’ll Do: A History of Marrying for Reasons Other than Love."
Recent Stories
Chemical engineering research aims to improve lithium-sulfur battery systems
July 07, 2025, Chris Horn
A rechargeable battery system with lower component costs and higher energy density potential than commonly used lithium-ion batteries is the focus of an industry-sponsored study by a chemical engineering research team at the University of South Carolina.
Worth a listen: podcasts by USC faculty and staff
June 27, 2025, Laura Erskine
USC faculty and staff members produce a variety of podcasts that will keep you coming back for another episode. From deep dives into Southern history and campus life to engaging conversations with experts in business, pharmacy and public health, we’ve rounded up selections to give you a sample of what USC podcasters have to offer.
How Internet of Things devices affect your privacy
June 25, 2025, David Sella-Villa
The Internet of Things includes any device that automatically sends and receives data via the internet. When you use your phone to message someone or social media to post something, the sharing is deliberate. But the data from these devices can reveal a lot about the people who interact with them – and about other people around the devices.
USC chemist leads new NSF center focused on developing sustainable, eco-friendly plastics
June 23, 2025, Chris Horn
By 2050 plastic manufacturing around the world is projected to total 1 billion tons, and more than half of all that plastic is expected to end up in landfills and the ocean. It’s an industry that relies on petroleum as a key ingredient and produces products that can’t easily be recycled without generating additional waste. But USC's Chuanbing Tang has a game-changing idea for the world’s plastic crisis.
2025 hurricane faculty experts list
June 13, 2025, University Communications
The Atlantic hurricane season officially began June 1. Researchers at the University of South Carolina are available to discuss multiple aspects of the 2025 hurricane season, including preparation and communication, environmental impact and historical perspectives.
Shaping a smarter, more compassionate sickle cell nursing workforce
June 12, 2025, Gregory Hardy
College of Nursing assistant professor Lori Vick is advancing national efforts to train nurses to better understand and treat patients living with sickle cell disease. At the heart of that effort is the Sickle Cell Nursing Boot Camp, an initiative that promotes specialized knowledge in treating this chronic and often misunderstood condition.
Health Watch: Caring for someone with dementia during a hurricane
June 10, 2025, Nicole Carrico
A natural disaster can be a difficult experience for someone with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. Rob McMahon, chief nurse practitioner for USC Brain Health and assistant clinical professor at the School of Medicine Columbia, details how caregivers can best prepare ahead of a storm in our latest Health Watch.
Is methylene blue really a brain booster? A pharmacologist explains the science
June 10, 2025, Lorne Hofseth
The internet is abuzz with tributes to a liquid chemical called methylene blue that is being sold as a health supplement that enhances cognitive function. Vendors claim it amps brain energy, improves memory, boosts focus and dispels brain fog. A USC pharmacologist weighs in, via The Conversation.
English, Honors College alumnus follows his filmmaking passion
June 09, 2025, Page Ivey
Luke Hodges says he found the arts community he was looking for when he transferred into USC's English and Honors programs more than 10 years ago. Looking back, the writer and documentary filmmaker says he there was an "insane smorgasbord of opportunities" at USC.
Is AI sparking a cognitive revolution that will lead to mediocrity and conformity?
June 09, 2025, Wolfgang Messner
Artificial Intelligence began as a quest to simulate the human brain. Is it now in the process of transforming the human brain’s role in daily life?
Religious charter schools threaten to shift more money away from traditional public schools
June 06, 2025, Derek Black
The U.S. Supreme Court heard oral arguments on April 30, 2025, in what could be the most consequential case for public education since the court started requiring schools to desegregate in the years following Brown v. Board of Education.
Electrical engineering research group poised to advance manufacturing technology for next-gen semiconductors
June 03, 2025, Chris Horn
Twenty-five years ago, electrical engineering professor Asif Khan and his team helped put the University of South Carolina on the map in semiconductor electronics and photonics research, garnering several large grants and gaining widespread scholarly recognition along the way. Now, Khan and several colleagues in the Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing are poised to do it again in the field of next-generation extreme semiconductor chips that can function in harsh environments — including outer space.
Arnold School team explores ways to optimize social support for increased physical activity
June 03, 2025, Chris Horn
A team in USC’s Arnold School of Public Health is using a five-year NIH-sponsored study to determine the impact of social support in promoting physical activity.
Registry allows state to track Alzheimer's and dementia cases
May 30, 2025, Megan Sexton
For more than 35 years, USC’s Alzheimer’s registry has collected information on all diagnosed cases of Alzheimer’s disease or dementia in South Carolina. The first of its kind in the U.S., the registry provides a comprehensive resource for researchers, policymakers and caregivers, allowing them to track demographics and trends.
Thinking about Thinking
May 30, 2025, Téa Smith
Alamir Novin, assistant professor in the College of Information and Communications, recently conducted a volunteer-based study on user interaction with AI systems and how user bias evolves. Among the 200 participants, he found evidence of four basic types of cognitive bias: priming, anchoring, framing and availability.
SC Impact: Building stronger communities
May 28, 2025, Communications and marketing
From creating social mobility by supporting first-generation students to providing resources for community members who need them most, the University of South Carolina is dedicated to strengthening our state and improving the lives of its residents. It’s work that goes beyond the college campus and extends into every corner of South Carolina.
Nursing faculty member achieves her goals by degrees and with determination
May 21, 2025, Chris Horn
Nursing faculty member Jessica Gonzalez was recently selected to become a Jonas Scholar, an elite cohort of emerging nursing leaders from across the country. And her current Ph.D. research, which focuses on disparities in breast cancer diagnoses, was recognized by the National Institutes for Health with an R25 training grant.
Susan Elkins, founding chancellor of Palmetto College, steps down
May 20, 2025, Megan Sexton
Susan Elkins, the founding chancellor of Palmetto College, steps down this month after 12 years leading the program which encompasses USC’s two-year system campuses along with online bachelor’s degree completion programs.
Palmetto Power
May 19, 2025, Rebekah Friedman
As the state’s flagship public university, the University of South Carolina seeks solutions to a range of modern challenges. And our researchers are lighting the way.
USC announces 2025 Staff Excellence Awards recipients
May 19, 2025, Collyn Taylor
USC announced the recipients of its Staff Excellence Awards, which are given annually to staff members at the university who go above and beyond in their roles to help USC thrive.
Honors College junior named USC's 18th Udall Scholar
May 14, 2025, Brandon Pugh
Rising Honors College senior Ella Michel has been awarded a 2025 Udall Undergraduate Scholarship to continue her work at the intersection of energy, environment and community.
HRSM professor melds law and marketing expertise to prepare students
May 08, 2025, Thom Harman / photo by Kim Truett
Natasha Brison has practiced law and worked in the entertainment industry, starting a business as a marketing consultant for professional athletes. She also conducts research and came to South Carolina despite already earning tenure at another top institution. Now Brison brings her experience to USC's classrooms as an associate professor in the College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management's Department of Sport and Entertainment Management. Her diverse background is proving to be a great resource for her students as she prepares them to pursue their dreams after graduation.
SC Impact: Building better health
May 08, 2025, Communications and Marketing
As a small state with an aging and rapidly growing population, South Carolina faces a shortage of health care professionals — even as it confronts high rates of chronic diseases like heart disease, stroke, diabetes and cancer. The challenges are significant, but the University of South Carolina is working every day to address them head-on.
Retired English professor reflects on how a novel changed his life
May 05, 2025, Chris Horn / photo by Kim Truett
Don Greiner set out to become a medical doctor. An encounter with the modern novel changed the course of his life.
Mentoring program empowers families of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
April 29, 2025, Carol J.G. Ward
Preliminary results from a five-year NIH-funded study at the University of South Carolina show that the Autism Parent Navigator Program improves mental health, parenting confidence and caregiver relationships for families with children diagnosed with autism. Led by social work professor Robert Hock, the program connects parents with experienced peer navigators to offer guidance, emotional support and skill-building.
New USC clinic tackles mental health provider shortage in rural South Carolina
April 29, 2025, Carol J.G. Ward
The University of South Carolina School of Medicine Columbia is opening a free mental health clinic to serve rural communities in Bamberg, Calhoun, Fairfield, Orangeburg and Chester counties. Launching this summer, the student-operated, faculty-supervised clinic will offer in-person and telehealth services to those with limited access to care.
Jennifer Baumstark leads Nurse-Midwifery program, advancing maternal health in South Carolina
April 29, 2025, Gregory Hardy and Laura Morris
Jennifer Baumstark, a seasoned certified nurse-midwife and newly appointed director of the University of South Carolina’s accredited nurse-midwifery program, is spearheading efforts to improve maternal health across South Carolina. With a focus on mentorship, advocacy and expanding the nursing-midwifery workforce, Baumstark brings over two decades of clinical and academic experience to this pivotal role.
Innovative tech aims to help older adults age in place
April 24, 2025, Carol J.G. Ward
University of South Carolina researcher Shaun Owens is using remote monitoring technology to support African American seniors with dementia in rural areas—helping them age in place and bridging the healthcare gap.
Biomedical engineering faculty member studying the biomechanics of brain injury
April 23, 2025, Chris Horn
Sudden violent impact to the head, the kind that can happen in car crashes, football games and other activities, can shear and stretch brain tissue in ways that are very difficult to see. That’s why USC biomedical engineering assistant professor Ahmed Alshareef is part of a team studying the biomechanics of brain injuries with a goal of understanding exactly what happens dynamically to the brain during concussive events.
USC's College of Arts and Sciences renamed following transformational gift
April 22, 2025, Kristine Hartvigsen
The University of South Carolina College of Arts and Sciences has a new name honoring the vision and generosity of a prominent alumnus and his family. The official name, the University of South Carolina McCausland College of Arts and Sciences, was announced on Wednesday (April 23) during a ceremony on USC's Horseshoe.
USC geographer Jessica Barnes awarded prestigious Guggenheim Fellowship
April 18, 2025, Rose Cisneros
Associate professor Jessica Barnes has been awarded a 2025 Guggenheim Fellowship — one of the nation’s most prestigious honors for scholars, artists and scientists. Barnes is known for her research on how people interact with the environment in their everyday lives — especially how resources like water, food and air are used, controlled and experienced unequally across different communities.
Engineering researcher focused on improving manufacturing processes for advanced composite materials
April 09, 2025, Chris Horn
Embedded sensors, edge computing, machine learning and high-fidelity simulations are part of the toolkit for Paul Ziehl and the research team he works with at USC’s McNAIR Center for Aerospace Engineering and Research.
US News rankings: USC's International MBA remains top in the country
April 07, 2025, Megan Sexton
For the 12th straight year, the University of South Carolina has earned the No. 1 ranking in the country for its International MBA program, according to the 2025 Best Graduate School rankings released April 8 by U.S. News & World Report.
New Economic Policy Center offers data-driven analysis to state agencies, other policymakers
April 07, 2025, Chris Horn
In a perfect world, state agencies and local governments would implement each new policy and program only after rigorous economic analysis that maps out the cost benefits, potential side effects and hidden costs of choosing one option over another. That data-driven approach to policymaking is the focus of S.C. EPiC, the South Carolina Economic Policy Center based in the economics department of the Darla Moore School of Business at USC.
2025 Autism Acceptance Month: USC faculty experts list
April 04, 2025, Communications and Marketing
April is Autism Acceptance Month. The CDC estimates that one out of every 36 eight-year-olds and one in 45 adults is affected by autism, a lifelong developmental disorder. As South Carolina’s leader in health sciences, USC has researchers across disciplines who specialize in autism.
From classroom concept to award-winning AI
April 03, 2025, Gregory Hardy
What began as a student project in Ramtin Zand’s course on neuromorphic computing—an area of computer science that designs artificial intelligence systems inspired by the human brain—has rapidly grown into an award-winning research initiative with real-world applications in education and AI.
USC celebrates 2025 Governor's Award for the Arts winners
April 01, 2025, Brandon Pugh
The Koger Center, USC School of Music professor Gail Barnes and USC School of Visual Arts and Design alumnus Wade Sellers have been named winners of the 2025 Governor’s Awards for the Arts by the South Carolina Arts Commission, recognizing exceptional practice or support of contemporary and traditional art forms.
USC neuroscience experts working to understand, improve brain health
April 01, 2025, Communications and Marketing
The University of South Carolina is focused on the brain. From autism and aphasia to Alzheimer’s and other related dementias, university researchers are working across several academic disciplines to better understand how the brain works and to develop solutions that will improve people’s health.
Give 4 Garnet reports nearly $1.5 million raised
March 27, 2025, Alexis Watts and Michaela Taylor
Thanks to the generosity of the USC community, Give 4 Garnet reports a preliminary total of nearly $1.5 million and counting raised from 7,942 donors, showcasing the collective power of giving back.
Video: The Great Gatsby turns 100
March 25, 2025, Hadley McCollester
On April 10, 2025, the great American novel "The Great Gatsby" turns 100 years old. Take a behind-the-scenes look at the exhibit “'Something significant, elemental and profound’: Celebrating 100 Years of The Great Gatsby” at the Ernest F. Hollings Special Collections Library.
University of South Carolina launches nurse-midwifery program
March 24, 2025, Gregory Hardy
Midwives care for women throughout their lifetime and play a critical role in maternal health. The College of Nursing is launching the state’s only accredited nurse-midwifery education program to address South Carolina’s maternal health needs, particularly in rural communities.
Poor neighborhoods, health care barriers are factors for heart disease risk in Black mothers
March 24, 2025, Curisa Tucker
A recent study by Curisa Tucker reveals that living in disadvantaged neighborhoods significantly increases the risk of peripartum cardiomyopathy, particularly for Black mothers, emphasizing the role of social and environmental factors in maternal health.
In the footsteps of Chand Bibi
March 20, 2025, Laura Erskine
As a Fulbright Scholar, Sarah Waheed traced the footsteps of Chand Bibi through the southwestern region of India. She visited ruins and archives, working with historians, archeologists and residents to gather the pieces of Chand Bibi’s story. Now Waheed tells this story in her forthcoming book.
Give 4 Garnet helps fuel geology students' essential field camp experience
March 18, 2025, Alexis Watts
Geology students turn to Give 4 Garnet — the university's annual day of giving — to help fund their essential field camp experience.
USC planning SC's first clinical neurological and rehabilitation center
March 14, 2025, Jeff Stensland
The University of South Carolina is developing a unique clinical neurological and rehabilitation center that will house the Palmetto State’s first standalone comprehensive medical facility dedicated entirely to integrated care of patients with brain and nervous system illnesses.
USC psychologist uses mobile EEG to break down barriers to research
March 14, 2025, Laura Erskine
AJ Peterman is undergoing an EEG for a study led by Caitlin Hudac, director of USC’s Brain Research Across Development lab. Hudac first took her lab on the road to test children who have rare genetic conditions and couldn’t travel. Now, she hopes to expand her reach.
USC Press internship program creating new chapters for student success
March 11, 2025, Alexis Watts
First-generation, low-income students frequently face the difficult choice between earning a paycheck and advancing their careers. The University of South Carolina Press Internship Program is changing this narrative through a paid stipend initiative so that no student misses out on a valuable internship experience because of financial constraints.
World-renowned Joffrey Ballet residency at USC promises unforgettable experiences
March 06, 2025, Kristine Hartvigsen
Dance students in the University of South Carolina’s Betsy Blackmon Dance Program are spending extra time at the barre in anticipation of the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity they will have collaborating with the world-famous Joffrey Ballet. The company begins a three-week residency at USC on March 17 that will culminate with an unprecedented Koger Center performance on April 5.
Dean Tayloe Harding to lead national music accreditation organization
March 06, 2025, Carol J.G. Ward
Tayloe Harding brings more than three decades of experience with the National Association of Schools of Music into his new role as its president to advance the cause of music in American life, establish and maintain accreditation standards and provide a national forum for related issues.
AIs flunk language test that takes grammar out of the equation
February 28, 2025, Rutvik Desai
While the quality of AI systems' output sometimes rivals work done by humans, they are also prone to confidently churning out factually incorrect information. Skeptics have also called into question their ability to reason.
Professor explores intersection of AI, advertising and public perception
February 26, 2025, Brandon Pugh
As CIC’s associate dean for research, Linwan Wu is leading the college’s work to understand the influence and impact of artificial intelligence in advertising. Through the first two USC AI Index reports and those to come, he’s helping to evaluate national sentiment on the now-prevalent communications technology.
Simple activities could be keys to dementia prevention, says public health researcher
February 25, 2025, Chris Horn
Half a million Americans are diagnosed annually with dementia, so finding ways to prevent its onset is a focus of public health researchers, including a University of South Carolina professor who is testing simple techniques for older adults.
School of Medicine Columbia breaks ground on new facility at USC Health Sciences Campus
February 21, 2025, Gregory Hardy
The University of South Carolina broke ground on a facility that will redefine the future of health care education and research during a ceremony on Tuesday, Feb. 25, at the site of its new School of Medicine Columbia. This cutting-edge, 300,000-square-foot-plus medical education and research facility will be part of USC’s transformative $300 million Health Sciences Campus, amid 16 acres in Columbia’s reimagined BullStreet District.
USC's new record label gives students an early start on many aspects of music careers
February 21, 2025, Catherine Pruitt
USC's new record label, Greene Street Records, is giving students a head start on their music careers through hands-on experience.
Health Watch: Flossing for heart health and reducing stroke risk
February 18, 2025, Gregory Hardy
Oral health isn’t just about your smile—it could help protect your heart, too. A new study finds an unexpected heart health habit can be that regular flossing reduces stroke risk. Dr. Souvik Sen explains why you shouldn't skip out on flossing in the name of heart health.
Video: Remembering desegregation at USC
February 17, 2025, Lawson Estridge
A 12-foot bronze statue in front of McKissick Museum on the historic Horseshoe was inspired by a photo taken Sept. 11, 1963, when three African American students exited the Osborne Administration Building after enrolling at the University of South Carolina. We take a look behind the scenes of the creation of the monument dedicated to those brave pioneers who led the desegregation of USC.
Med students step up to fight childhood cancer
February 12, 2025, Megan Sexton
The Future Leaders in Medicine, a student organization at the USC School of Medicine Columbia, has teamed with Curing Kids Cancer to raise awareness – and funds— for the fight against childhood cancer.
Augusta Baker: Trailblazer's legacy shines through South Carolina library programs
February 10, 2025, Laura Erskine
Augusta Baker left a remarkable legacy in the fields of librarianship and children’s literature. After retiring from the New York Public Library system, Baker became storyteller-in-residence at USC from 1980 to 1994. It was the first position of its kind at an American university, a role created for Baker to teach students, librarians and educators how to make reading more exciting for children.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. nomination signals new era of anti-intellectualism in American politics
January 30, 2025, Kristin Lunz Trujillo et al
The many controversial people appointed to the Trump administration have at least one thing in common: They dislike and distrust experts. While anti-intellectualism and populism are nothing new in American life, there has hardly been an administration as seemingly committed to these worldviews.
2025 heart health faculty experts list
January 29, 2025, Gregory Hardy
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.
Nurse anesthetist Marcia Iszard has the caretaker gene
January 29, 2025, Faith Militello
Marcia Iszard, a certified registered nurse anesthetist for 15 years and current president of the South Carolina Association of Nurse Anesthetists, is passionate about advancing the nurse anesthesia profession. As a clinical assistant professor at the School of Medicine Columbia, she combines her leadership experience and commitment to education to shape the next generation of CRNAs while advocating for improved healthcare access across South Carolina.
The Starbase rocket testing facility is permanently changing the landscape of southern Texas
January 28, 2025, Robert A. Kopack
If there is a leader in the aerospace industry, SpaceX is it. Boca Chica, Texas, is home to SpaceX’s flagship assembly and test installation, Starbase. Since 2021, research has been conducted with environmental groups and community members in south Texas who see space exploration as a landscape-altering industry. Geography professor Robert A. Kopack writes about Starbase for The Conversation.
As Syria ponders a democratic future: 5 lessons from the Arab Spring
January 27, 2025, Robert Kubinec
The fall of Bashar Assad’s dictatorship in December 2024 has ushered in a nerve-wracking time of hope and fear for Syrians concerning future governance in the long-war-torn country. While it’s unclear what exact political path Syria will take, the dilemmas the country faces are similar to the experiences of other Arab countries more than a decade ago. Robert Kubinec, assistant professor of political science at the University of South Carolina, writes for The Conversation about his research on Arab uprisings in the Middle East.
Why government can't make America 'healthier' by micromanaging groceries purchased with SNAP benefits
January 27, 2025, Danielle Krobath
Banning junk food from SNAP is something that has divided public health experts for years. However, research shows that adding to the restrictions that already limit access to SNAP benefits do little to make Americans healthier. Danielle Krobath, an assistant professor of epidemiology at the University of South Carolina’s Arnold School of Public Health, writes for The Conversation with Tufts University Assistant Professor of Community Health Benjamin Chrisinger about their research into safety net programs.
US News rankings: USC's online nursing master's remains No. 1 in the nation
January 21, 2025, Megan Sexton
For the fifth straight year, USC's College of Nursing is ranked No. 1 in the country for its online master’s in nursing program, according to U.S. News and World Report’s annual online program rankings released Tuesday (Jan. 21).
Hollings Library Exhibit: The Great Gatsby at 100
January 21, 2025, Craig Brandhorst
A new exhibit, “‘Something significant, elemental and profound’: Celebrating 100 Years of The Great Gatsby,” opens Jan. 24 at the University of South Carolina’s Hollings Library. Michael Weisenburg, director of USC’s Irvin Department of Rare Books and Special Collections, discusses the novel’s enduring appeal.
Video: USC professor, alumni work to prepare communities for hazardous events
January 16, 2025, Video by Hadley McCollester. Intro text by Laura Erskine.
From communities in the Southeast submerged by floodwaters to neighborhoods on the California coast battling raging wildfires, natural disasters are on the rise. Hear from geographer Susan Cutter, Carolina Distinguished Professor, and alumni working in emergency management across the state and nation about how tools like the Social Vulnerability Index can lead to better outcomes for the future.
Two-time Olympic gold medalist's second act connects athletes' minds and bodies
January 15, 2025, Anna Francis
Natasha Hastings came to the University of South Carolina with dreams of excelling as an athlete. Although her talent eventually would propel her to an NCAA championship, multiple world championships and two Olympic gold medals, her initial start on the Gamecock track and field team was less than stellar. Her body was sound, but she had psychological demons to slay.
Chemistry professor deploys genome mining techniques in search for medically useful bioagents
January 15, 2025, Chris Horn
Drawing from an enormous collection of genetic material, a University of South Carolina chemistry professor is on a mission to find novel bioactive agents with potential antibiotic, anti-cancer and anti-inflammation applications.
New engineering professor Thor Wuest prepares students for careers on the cutting edge
January 14, 2025, Rebekah Friedman
Newly hired Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing professor Thorsten "Thor" Wuest is a recognized thought leader in smart manufacturing. As South Carolina experiences record manufacturing job growth, Wuest sees an opportunity for USC’s engineering graduates to keep that momentum going.
Public health professor explains wildfires' long-term impact on environment, health
January 13, 2025, Rebekah Friedman
Arnold School of Public Health professor Mohammed Baalousha studies how wildfires affect the formation of nanomaterials and how these ultra-tiny particles are seeping into water and soil.
4 recognized for social justice work
January 13, 2025, Page Ivey
The University of South Carolina has recognized students, faculty and staff members for their work on campus and in the larger community with 2025 Social Justice Awards.
Geophysics professor's new book looks at origin of scientific ideas
January 06, 2025, Chris Horn/Portrait by Kim Truett
Retired geophysics professor Pradeep Talwani’s forthcoming book, which is under contract with Oxford University Press, explores the origin of certain scientific ideas and could rattle the traditional narrative.
The good, the bad and the gutsy
January 03, 2025, Kristine Hartvigsen
The USC Baruch Institute's new director, Jill Stewart, is endlessly fascinated by the natural alchemy of the oft-maligned yet mighty microbe. These tiny living microorganisms are everywhere, from the surface of our skin and the air we breathe to the water we drink and the soil beneath our feet. In fact, microbes are essential to the persistence of life on Earth. So why do they sometimes get a bad rap?
Championship Run: 2024 year in review
December 16, 2024
From a national championship and record research funding to a major engineering gift and a host of academic awards, 2024 was a banner year for USC.
Faculty spotlight: Emily Ruth Allen
December 11, 2024, Dan Cook
From the time she was in her high school marching band, Emily Ruth Allen has loved the atmosphere and celebratory tradition of Mardi Gras. Now the instructor of music and Southern Studies has made a career of studying festivals and celebratory rituals.
One's a Hugh Grant thriller, one's a hot-mess reality show - and both center on stereotypes about Mormon women
December 09, 2024, Rebecca Janzen
In film, religion is often a way for audiences to wrestle with ideas about gender and social change. That’s all the more true if the religion is considered conservative, or prone to stereotyping, both of which apply to Latter-day Saints. Female characters’ dilemmas are often depicted as the result of their faith – but their characterization may say more about the rest of America than the church itself.
Video: Clinic offers hope to individuals with communication disorders
December 06, 2024, Hadley McCollester
In South Carolina, 97 percent of newborn infants are screened for hearing ability — and 3.1 percent do not pass. At the Arnold School of Public Health, there’s a clinic that can help.
Research by 2 pharmacy professors aims at new therapies for depression, stress, anxiety
December 04, 2024, Chris Horn
Pharmacy professors Alessandra Porcu and Chase Francis are conducting groundbreaking research aimed at developing new therapies for depression, stress and anxiety. Their work, supported by a developmental research grant from the National Institute of Mental Health, explores how circadian rhythms and brain regions like the nucleus accumbens affect mental health.
Renewed grants, funding growth solidify College of Pharmacy's research leadership
December 04, 2024, Gregory Hardy
The College of Pharmacy, driven by faculty like Jun Zhu, M.D., Ph.D., and Hippokratis Kiaris, continues to lead in pharmaceutical research with $13 million in sponsored awards in 2024, a 67% increase from last year. Zhu’s groundbreaking work on HIV-related cognitive care recently earned a $3.8 million NIH grant, while Kiaris’ COBRE Center has facilitated over $50 million in research funding. Their efforts contribute to USC’s record $309 million in research funding, solidifying its reputation for global health impact.
New information science professor defies librarian stereotype
November 21, 2024, Kristine Hartvigsen
A native Texan who earned her bachelor’s, master’s and doctorate in information studies from the University of Texas-Austin, Information Science associate professor Jennifer Moore spent her early career years as an elementary school librarian and a middle school language arts teacher. For 11 years, she taught at the University of North Texas and Texas Woman’s University. Recently arrived in Columbia, Moore moved into a century-old house where she can indulge her love of cooking and gardening.
USC scientists deploy artificial intelligence, digital twin models to build new resources for medical care
November 20, 2024, Chris Horn
A team of USC scientists is using a $3.4 million grant to develop new technology for personalized medical treatment and more accurate medical diagnoses. USC faculty members from medicine, chemistry and mathematics are leading various aspects of the five-year project funded by the National Science Foundation’s Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCoR).
Saltwater flooding is a serious fire threat for EVs and other devices with lithium-ion batteries
November 15, 2024, Xinyu Huang
Flooding from hurricanes Helene and Milton inflicted billions of dollars in damage across the Southeast. It caused dozens of electric vehicles and other battery-powered objects, such as scooters and golf carts, to catch fire. Many consumers are unaware of this risk, and lithium-ion batteries are widely used in EVs, e-bikes and cordless power tools. Here is what owners should know about water and the risk of battery fires.
Former USC classmates team teach cross-Atlantic language course
November 14, 2024, Chris Horn
Students rarely end up later in life teaching the same undergraduate course they took in college, but that’s what Heather Dreano and Lesley Smith are doing now, thanks to an assist from their former University of South Carolina professor.
Gamecock nurses first to train with cutting-edge ultrasound
November 14, 2024, Gregory Hardy
Nursing students at the University of South Carolina are getting hands-on simulation training with the newest generation of portable ultrasound equipment this November. Associate Professor Amy Dievendorf led the first immersion training with graduate-level nurse practitioner students in November at the College of Nursing’s new Clinical Education Building.
The Neuroscience of Sleep
November 13, 2024, Carol J.G. Ward
School of Medicine Columbia researcher Ana Pocivavsek’s new four-year NIH grant will allow her to study the impact of sleep across the lifespan during windows that are critical to brain development, including pregnancy.
USC awarded federal grant to boost state's college and career readiness
November 12, 2024, Brandon Pugh
The U.S. Department of Education has awarded USC one of its largest-ever grants — $35 million — for the College of Education's GEAR UP SC program to help disadvantaged students overcome barriers to college and career opportunities.
USC faculty, alumni work to fill health care gap in rural areas
November 11, 2024
More than a quarter of South Carolinians call a rural area home, but these populations have a higher incidence of medical emergencies and are at greater risk of death because of barriers to access to timely medical care. USC researchers and alumni are working to change that, both for the state’s communities and at the national level.
New faculty spotlight: Cassandra Bosier
November 08, 2024, Megan Sexton
Cassandra Bosier is a new faculty member in the College of Education, but she isn’t new to the classroom. She spent 25 years as a teacher, mentor and principal in Richland County schools before starting at USC this fall.
National estuarine monitoring system keeps watchful eye on coastal research sites, impact from changing climate
November 08, 2024, Chris Horn
Around the clock and every day of the year for the past three decades, an environmental monitoring system has been keeping a finger on the pulse of 30 diverse estuaries across the country, collecting water quality and weather data. The integrated System-Wide Monitoring Program and Centralized Data Management Office is headquartered in Georgetown, S.C., at USC’s Belle W. Baruch Institute for Marine and Coastal Sciences.
'I research rap lyrics and testified in a Toronto rapper's murder trial'
November 04, 2024, Jabari Evans
Jabari Evans, assistant professor of race and media in the School of Journalism and Mass Communications writes for "The Conversation" about his experience as an expert witness in a murder trial involving the rapper Top5.
New research explores the 'thoughts' and abilities of AI chatbots
November 04, 2024, Kristine Hartvigsen
Artificial Intelligence advocates might defensively suggest, in good humor, that chatbots are “only human” and therefore prone to occasional mistakes. New research by a team at the University of South Carolina Department of Psychology basically confirms that notion with some important caveats.
Michael J. Mungo Undergraduate Teaching Award winner: Ozgur Ince
November 04, 2024, Page Ivey
Ozgur Ince, finance professor in the University of South Carolina’s Darla Moore School of Business, is always looking for new ways to make finance relatable for his students. Ince is a 2024 Michael J. Mungo Undergraduate Teaching Award winner.
2024 rural health faculty experts
October 31, 2024, Laura Morris
More than a quarter of South Carolina residents live in rural areas and must overcome greater health care challenges than their urban counterparts. USC faculty members are available to offer their expertise in rural health services and research. To coordinate an interview, contact the staff member listed with each expert entry.
Social work professor uses advocacy, reflection to carve pathways for students in legal system
October 25, 2024, Gregory Hardy
Forensic social work is a specific discipline that examines how social workers intersect and interact with the legal system under domains both criminal and civil. Stephanie Hunter has 22 years of experience in the field, specifically working in criminal indigent defense. Now an assistant clinical professor at USC’s College of Social Work, she finds that both students and professionals often require an explanation about the field.
New Faculty Spotlight: Paul Toriello
October 25, 2024, Faith Militello
Paul Toriello, assistant dean of clinical graduate programs, brings 30 years of experience in mental health counseling and academia to the School of Medicine Columbia. As a clinical professor in the Department of Neuropsychiatry and Behavioral Science, he leads initiatives to integrate technology into health care education and expand mental health services, preparing students to become professional caregivers.
Michael J. Mungo undergraduate teaching award winner: Jeanne Britton
October 21, 2024, Téa Smith
Jeanne Britton, a curator in the Department of Rare Books and Special collections, is the winner of the university’s Michael J. Mungo Undergraduate Teaching Award.
Carolina Trustees Professorship for System Campuses Award winner: Cindy J. Lahar
October 21, 2024, Téa Smith
Cindy J. Lahar, a professor of psychology and the program coordinator for psychology at the University of South Carolina Beaufort, is this year’s Carolina Trustees Professorship for System Campuses award winner.
Nursing excellence: Gamecock nurses lead the way
October 18, 2024, Communications and Marketing
There is also no doubt that nurses — an integral part of the nation's health care system — are in short supply. From opening a new building at Lexington Medical Center to being the home of the top-ranked online graduate program in nursing education, the University of South Carolina College of Nursing is committed to addressing the need.