Recent Stories

Nursing student with instructor at bedside

Gamecock nurses lead the way in health care delivery

February 09, 2026, Megan Sexton

From faculty members inventing new tools to help students learn the intricacies of treating heart defects in infants to opening up pathways to nursing careers for people with disabilities, the University of South Carolina College of Nursing is stepping up every day.

Modern-day Cocky runs onto the field at the stadium.

The one and only Cocky: Many have worn the suit, but there's just one Cocky

February 06, 2026, Laura Erskine

At the 1980 Homecoming game, USC debuted its mascot, Cocky, for the first time. Cocky would go on to be named one of the “Greatest Mascots in College Football History” by Sports Illustrated. He’s won high-profile national competitions and appeared at sporting events worldwide. But his first appearance definitely ruffled some feathers.

Thomas Mullikin smiles for the camera in a bowtie.

2025 Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award winner Tom Mullikin to direct the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources.

February 05, 2026, Marketing and Communications

2025 Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award winner Tom Mullikin has enjoyed a long and eclectic career. Now, the longtime environmental lawyer is managing the Palmetto State’s fish, wildlife and natural areas as director of the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources.

Sophia Comose stands next to a decorated classroom door that reads,

Teacher balanced full-time work, online courses through USC's Palmetto College

February 04, 2026, Chris Horn

Sophia Comose always dreamed of becoming a teacher. While she wasn’t sure if the on-campus college experience was right for her, she loved the idea of working full time while earning an education degree online from Palmetto College. The flexible program allowed Comose to gain hands-on experience in her field, and she landed a teaching position after graduating in 2025.

Group in formal wear on a red carpet

USC School of Music professor wins 2026 Grammy

February 03, 2026, Marlena Crovatt-Bagwell and Brandon Pugh

Bassoon professor Michael Harley and his new-music ensemble Alarm Will Sound snared top honors in Best Chamber Music/Small Ensemble Performance for Land of Winter, a collaborative piece that was also nominated for Best Contemporary Classical Composition. Harley's nomination and another for fellow professor Mak Grgic were the latest of several Grammy nominations for musicians with USC connections.

Connor Shaw, his wife and their four children are all smiles, posing together at a rec field

Gamecock legend Connor Shaw starts a nonprofit after a close call

January 29, 2026, Thom Harman / photos by Kim Truett

While coaching his son’s flag football team last fall, former USC quarterback Connor Shaw went into sudden cardiac arrest. Quick thinking, the presence of first responders and an automated external defibrillator saved his life. Now fully recovered, Shaw has started a nonprofit to increase CPR training and bring AEDs to athletic fields statewide, and beyond.

Jamie Ballentine poses with the bronze Cocky statue on USC's campus.

Former Cocky brings kids and families comfort through mascot career

January 16, 2026, Laura Erskine

Alumnus Jamie Ballentine knew he wanted to be a mascot from the time he was a teenager. Before he even graduated from high school, he landed a role with USC as Cocky. After a four-year, national award-winning run, Ballentine set out to become a professional mascot. He now plays Olly the Otter for Lexington Kid's Day, visiting sick children and their families.

head shots of the five 2026 winners

5 recognized for social justice work

January 13, 2026, Kristine Hartvigsen

The University of South Carolina has recognized students, faculty and staff members for their work on campus and in the larger community with 2026 Martin Luther King Social Justice Awards. The awards recognize individuals who have exemplified the philosophies of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. through acts of community service, social justice or racial reconciliation.

Woman in cap and gown waving towel at graduation ceremony

Class of 2025 December graduates

December 03, 2025, Megan Sexton

As the December Class of 2025 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.

Three doctors standing in the glass hallway of a clinic

Jonathan Aun's Honors College experience helped shape his successful career path into medicine

November 18, 2025, Chris Horn

As a first-generation student, Jonathan Aun's path to becoming a doctor wasn't easy. In USC's Honors College he found friendships, memories and an environment of support and exploration in which to lead and help others do the same. Whether called Major Aun or Dr. Aun today, he continues to build compassionate connection with his patients — and is a true Gamecock at heart.

A group of winners gather together holding their awards.

USC students and alumni win South Carolina InnoVision Awards

November 14, 2025, Laura Erskine

Six finalists with ties to USC were recognized by the 2025 InnoVision Awards, with three winning top honors. The winning businesses are led by students in the South Carolina Honors College, alumni and graduate students from the Molinaroli College of Engineering, and alumni from the Darla Moore School of Business and the Honors College.

woman stands outside with trees in the background

Clinical Practice Teaching Award: Megan Tran

November 12, 2025, Dan Cook

It would be a stretch to say that playing the clarinet led to Megan Tran’s career as a pharmacist — but not much of one. In high school, Tran — now a clinical assistant professor at the College of Pharmacy — played the clarinet and the tenor sax. Playing in the marching band was a big reason the Clover, South Carolina, native came to USC, and she considered a career as a band director. But an aunt encouraged her to keep an open mind about career options, and Tran ended up falling in love with pharmacy.

Students walk along brick pathway on campus during fall

First-generation students bring perspective, energy to USC campus

October 31, 2025, Megan Sexton

As the university marks the celebration of First-Gen College Celebration Week, we caught up with first-generation students, alumni, faculty and staff who are thriving in the classroom and beyond.

Head and shoulders photo of James Bowers

Law school's first full-time African American professor cements his legacy

October 07, 2025, Megan Sexton

James E. Bowers was an undergraduate student at USC in the early days of desegregation and the first full-time African American law school professor. He will cement his legacy with an endowed professorship in his name at the Joseph F. Rice School of Law, the first named for a Black law school professor, and an endowed lectureship series that will share knowledge about democracy and the rule of law.

Flood waters in Columbia fill street and business

Researchers and former students recall harsh lessons from historic 2015 Midlands flood

September 30, 2025, Chris Horn

It happened a decade ago, but lessons learned from the catastrophic flooding of Oct. 1-5, 2015, in the Midlands of South Carolina are still being reckoned by University of South Carolina researchers and former students who were involved in the flood’s aftermath.

Curing Kids Cancer founders Clay and Grainne Owen present a check to Michael Wyatt from the USC College of Pharmacy

Curing Kids Cancer pledge fuels USC, Prisma Health pediatric cancer research partnership

September 24, 2025, Laura Morris

The University of South Carolina College of Pharmacy and Prisma Health Children’s Hospital announced a research collaboration on Sept. 24 aimed at redefining pediatric oncology care in South Carolina. The $5 million pledge from Curing Kids Cancer will fund research aimed at developing and providing access to innovative therapeutics for children with cancer.

A headshot of script writer Patrick Pianezza in front of a bookshelf

Journalism and public health alumnus Patrick Pianezza brings paramedic burnout to the big screen

September 17, 2025, Rebekah Friedman

Patrick Pianezza worked as a paramedic while earning his bachelor’s in public relations and master’s in health administration. He never imagined his career path would lead to Hollywood, or that an undergraduate creative writing assignment would inspire his first movie.

woman standing in a football stadium giving the

USC experience paved the way for Pulitzer finalist Mary Ramsey

August 27, 2025, Page Ivey

When Mary Ramsey arrived at the University of South Carolina, she was already certain of two things: she wanted to be a Gamecock, and she wanted to be a journalist. After earning her bachelor's degree in journalism, she has made stops at newspapers in Arizona, Kentucky and now at the Charlotte Observer, where one of her stories was part of the paper's Pulitzer Prize finalist package for covering Hurricane Helene.

Two college-aged athletes run in competition in an open field in the heat.

Health Watch: 6 Dangerous Heat Stroke Myths That Could Put Your Health at Risk

August 20, 2025, Gregory Hardy

Rising temperatures are making heat stroke a serious risk in South Carolina and beyond, especially during outdoor activities such as youth sports, yardwork, recreation and even work. At USC’s Arnold School of Public Health, associate professor of athletic training Susan Yeargin debunks dangerous myths about treating this life-threatening condition.

Headshot of Josh Dawsey

Alumnus Josh Dawsey publishes best-selling book on 2024 election

July 17, 2025, Laura Erskine

Josh Dawsey works at the forefront of U.S. politics. He has covered the White House extensively and has twice won the Pulitzer Prize for his reporting with teams from The Washington Post. His new book "2024: How Trump Retook the White House and the Democrats Lost America" tells the story of the tumultuous election season.

Monique Garvin and a colleague talk with the South Carolina State House in the background.

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.

David Prim poses in front of the Paris skyline in spring 2024.

Biomedical engineering alum stays on mission with work in venture capital

May 12, 2025, Laura Erskine

USC alumnus David Prim has dedicated his career to fighting cardiovascular diseases — first as a researcher and now as a venture capitalist. He works for Broadview Ventures in Boston, helping the organization identify and invest in promising new technologies for the diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular disease and stroke.

A headshot of Katy Close in black & white.

School of Medicine alum treats patients in underserved communities around the world

May 12, 2025, Craig Brandhorst

USC’s impact on health care is improving lives throughout the Palmetto State, but our graduates take their knowledge around the world. For School of Medicine Columbia graduate Katy Close, that has meant treating patients in underserved communities from El Salvador to Haiti to Liberia.

Brandi Revels smiles for the camera during her trip in Antarctica

For marine chemist Brandi Revels, remote work means an Antarctic cruise

May 07, 2025, Megan Sexton

It’s not hard to understand why Brandi Revels loves her job as a researcher aboard the expedition ship Viking Polaris. The sense of awe — for our world, for our planet — drew her to science. Her love of adventure took her from West Columbia, South Carolina, to the far ends of the Earth. Revels, who earned her master’s in marine chemistry from the University of South Carolina in 2013, now lives in Zurich, Switzerland — when she’s not spending months at sea as the chief scientist aboard the Viking Polaris.

Rick Layman smiles for the camera with Matt Bruccoli’s photo in the background

Richard Layman: Sharing collections

May 02, 2025, Craig Brandhorst / photo by Kim Truett

Rick Layman studied under English professor, publisher and F. Scott Fitzgerald collector Matthew J. Bruccoli and later became Bruccoli’s business partner. Like his mentor, Layman also became a collector — in his case of Dashiell Hammett. And both men’s collections are now housed in USC’s Irvin Department of Rare Books and Special Collections.

A South Carolina road with a “Welcome to South Carolina” sign

USC health sciences graduates have major impact in rural areas

May 02, 2025, Rebekah Friedman / photos by Kim Truett

From obstetricians and nurses to social workers and psychiatrists, University of South Carolina graduates are especially needed in rural areas, where more than a quarter of the state’s residents live. And the impact isn’t only felt by the patient; it’s also felt by the communities themselves. Carolinian visited several alumni whose small-town efforts are having a big impact. These proud health care workers showed us the meaning of dedication and their commitment to the people and communities they serve.

The fountains and reflecting pool in front of Thomas Cooper Library

SC impact: Pell Grant recipients thrive in a wide range of fields

April 29, 2025, Laura Erskine

For more than 50 years, USC has made an undergraduate education more attainable through TRIO programs. The foundation of these opportunities is the Pell Grant. Here, USC alumni share how the Pell Grant opened the door for them to achieve their dreams of earning their degrees and attaining fulfilling, impactful careers.

Student in cap and gown stands with fists in the air
man and woman stand in front of chairs

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.

Emily Rabon and Joseph Buchmaier pose outside on campus.

Student government experience leads two USC seniors to Harvard Law

April 17, 2025, Laura Erskine

USC’s student government has two graduating seniors who have been accepted to Harvard Law School, one of the nation’s top programs. The students credit their time in student government, along with the excellent training they received both in the classroom and beyond, with helping them reach their goals.

Award statues aligned on a table

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.

woman standing in front of USC logo

USC alumna, Marine champions veterans

March 18, 2025, Megan Sexton

For USC alumna Caroline Fermin, the decision to join the Marines at a time when only 2 percent of the officer corps were women led to a successful 25 years in the military with high-level global postings and numerous medals for meritorious service. She followed her military service with a thriving second career in public service, now as the director of Veterans Affairs for Beaufort County.

woman sits on a porch and holds a book titled

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.

A rendering of the new School of Medicine Columbia education and research facility

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.

A 12-foot bronze statue of three people stands in front of McKissick Museum.

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.

woman sits in a movie theater with the words

Journalism alumna builds career in Columbia's arts scene

February 07, 2025, Page Ivey

Sumner Bender credits a movie with inspiring her first true career choice. It seems only fitting, then, that the 2007 public relations graduate now leads Columbia’s art house cinema, The Nickelodeon Theatre. Her journey from PR to nonprofit executive has woven through Columbia’s arts scene for most of her adult life.

two women nurses stand at hospital bedside, one using a portable ultrasound on a patient

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).

a road washes away

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.

woman with track shoes around her neck and a U.S. flag draped on her shoulders stands in an arena

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.

Social Work alumna Monique Garvin stands with colleague overlooking SC State House

Alumna finds her niche as an advocate for survivors of domestic violence and trafficking

December 19, 2024, Carol J.G. Ward

University of South Carolina graduate Monique Garvin, '19 knows how critically important her work is in combatting various forms of abuse in South Carolina’s communities and acutely recognizes the impact violence has on individuals.

Kindergarten teacher Keith Heyward in his classroom

USC alumnus finds his true calling in the kindergarten classroom

November 26, 2024, Kristine Hartvigsen

Charleston native Keith Heyward Jr. was a restless third-grader when he realized his career goal was to teach. He knew that young Black boys craved a teacher they could relate to. Today, the University of South Carolina alumnus teaches kindergarten at James Island Elementary School. He makes sure the youngsters who step into his classroom feel safe and empowered.

Two women in caps and gowns turning tassles on graduation caps

Class of 2024 December graduates

November 20, 2024, Megan Sexton

As the December Class of 2024 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.

Gamecocks pose in New York City.

Gamecocks of New York

November 19, 2024, USC Social Team

With over 5,000 alumni in New York State, we celebrate this community in the style of "Humans of New York" — capturing the stories of 10 alumni across fields from technology to the arts, from basketball to pediatric care, each pursuing their dreams in the city that never sleeps.

woman walks across through a crosswalk in new york city

Gamecock Nation: New York

November 18, 2024, Communications and Marketing

As we celebrate the Mighty Sound of the Southeast’s appearance at the 2024 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, let’s also take a moment to celebrate the greater Gamecock spirit. From Times Square Studios to the New York Public Library, from Bryant Park to Broadway, New York is Carolina country, and we’ve got the stories and pictures to prove it.

Amy and her family pose with a statue of USC's mascot, Cocky

Honors College alumna is making her mark at CNN Sports

November 12, 2024, Kristine Hartvigsen

Long before she was traveling the world as senior director of business development and operations at CNN Sports, Amy Jordan was an Honors College student sending news releases around the world as a press intern for the late U.S. Sen. Fritz Hollings. To date, Jordan has covered four different Olympic games, numerous Super Bowls, the U.S. Open and more.

Student taking notes in class

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.

woman in scrubs with a stethoscope around her neck works at a computer station

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.

Stan Brown in the Imperial Theater, New York City

Gamecocks Take Manhattan: Stan Brown

November 08, 2024, Craig Brandhorst/Photos by Kim Truett

This spring, actor Stan Brown made his Broadway debut at the age of 61. The theatre double alumnus, ’84, ’89 MFA, calls the role as Camel in the musical ‘Water for Elephants’ “a dream deferred,” but it’s not as if he has been waiting in the wings all these years. The Great White Way is just the latest chapter in a long and gratifying career.

Eva Pilgrim laughs during her interview at GMA3 studios

Gamecocks Take Manhattan: Eva Pilgrim

November 08, 2024, Craig Brandhorst/Photos by Kim Truett

You’ve seen Eva Pilgrim in the co-host seat on ‘Good Morning America’ and ‘GMA3,’ but the broadcast journalism alumna has a rich life beyond TV. And while she’s been living, working and enjoying her career in New York City for nearly a decade, she remains true to her South Carolina roots. In fact, they’re a big part of her success.

Bill Bloking, left, with Wildcats co-owners Annie Hill and Christian Hauff Photo courtesy of Jackson Flindell/The West Australian

Retired oil industry executive and USC alum Bill Bloking is helping future generations of Gamecocks achieve dreams of their own.

October 23, 2024, Craig Brandhorst

The first in his family to attend college, Bill Bloking’s engineering degree prepared him for careers at Exxon and BHP — and for boardrooms around the globe. His William F. Bloking First-Generation Scholars Fund will support Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing students and programs.

Nursing student with stethoscope.

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.