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Stargazing at the Melton Observatory

This historic observatory adjacent to the Horseshoe of the USC Columbia campus (1429 Greene Street) is currently open to the public on clear Monday nights from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm EST (9:00 pm to 11:00 pm during EDT), weather permitting. Anyone is welcome to come by and observe through the 16-inch Cassegrain telescope in the dome and other small telescopes on the observatory deck. See the Moon, planets, stars, clusters, and more through our telescopes free of charge! To find out if the observatory is going to be open on a particular Monday night, please see its Facebook page or call 803-777-8105 or 803-777-8104. Admission Cost: Free. Monday, March 9, 2026, 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM. Melton Observatory 201.

Shen Yun

About This Show The gong resounds, the curtain opens, and fairies emerge from a sea of billowing clouds. Mongolians ride on horseback across grasslands as vast as the sky. Dynasties rise and fall—as ancient legends of love, loss, humor and valor unfold before your eyes. We set out to create a performance so extraordinary, it would not only capture the grandeur of China’s ancient, divinely-inspired culture… You just might catch a glimpse of heaven. Each performance consists of about 20 pieces, quickly moving from one legend, region, or dynasty to the next. Themes range from the delicate elegance of Tang court ladies to the battlefield heroics of valiant generals, from the timeless philosophical works of Lao-Tzu to spectacular scenes of heavenly realms… transporting you to a magical world. For tickets, please visit https://secure.kogercenterforthearts.com/Online/default.asp. Admission Cost: $91 - $195. Tuesday, March 10, 2026, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM. Koger Center Auditorium.

Shen Yun

About This Show The gong resounds, the curtain opens, and fairies emerge from a sea of billowing clouds. Mongolians ride on horseback across grasslands as vast as the sky. Dynasties rise and fall—as ancient legends of love, loss, humor and valor unfold before your eyes. We set out to create a performance so extraordinary, it would not only capture the grandeur of China’s ancient, divinely-inspired culture… You just might catch a glimpse of heaven. Each performance consists of about 20 pieces, quickly moving from one legend, region, or dynasty to the next. Themes range from the delicate elegance of Tang court ladies to the battlefield heroics of valiant generals, from the timeless philosophical works of Lao-Tzu to spectacular scenes of heavenly realms… transporting you to a magical world. For tickets, please visit https://secure.kogercenterforthearts.com/Online/default.asp. Admission Cost: $91 - $195. Wednesday, March 11, 2026, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM. Koger Center Auditorium.

The Good, the Bad & the Naked of USC History: Historic Horseshoe History Tour

Have you ever been strolling along the Historic Horseshoe bricks and found yourself wondering about the history of Carolina and its traditions? Well, you're in luck! Meet University Archivist Elizabeth West in front of the Caroliniana for a Horseshoe history tour. Learn the origins of the Tiger Burn and what national record Gamecock students set in 1974! Free and open to the public. Admission Cost: Free. Thursday, March 12, 2026, 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM. South Caroliniana Library 910 Sumter Street.

The Business of Publishing

Critical professional and life decisions on the part of early-career scholars occur within the economy of higher education. Academic publishers (of both books and journals) are a part of that economy and, as gatekeepers in processes of hiring, tenure, and promotion, presses play a major role in scholarly careers inside and outside the academy. To make informed decisions, it is necessary to understand the business of academic publishing. This workshop will provide a practical overview of publishing trends, from the business practices that shape academic publishing to the ways that technological innovation are reshaping the industry. As an early-career scholar, understanding these trends will help you make informed career decisions as you engage with the world of publishing. Michael J. McGandy is director of University of South Carolina Press. Prior to arriving at USC, he worked at Cornell University Press, where he was Senior Editor and Editorial Director of the Three Hills imprint. He has also worked in… Thursday, March 12, 2026, 1:15 PM – 2:30 PM. See event description for more details.

SC Philharmonic presents The Dream of America

About This Show Maurice Ravel, Alborada del gracioso, Shaosheng Li, Wind Across a Cloudless Firmament, Maurice Ravel, Bolero  Peter Boyer, Ellis Island – The Dream of America, A staged symphony with actors directed by Chad Henderson (The Chad Henderson Co.), ABOUT, This epic evening begins the SCP’s celebration of America’s 250th Anniversary as we present Peter Boyer’s Ellis Island: The Dream of America. Actors and orchestra weave the immigrant experience into living tableau, melding music and drama to celebrate hope, struggle, and new beginnings under the baton of Morihiko Nakahara and the direction of Chad Henderson (The Chad Henderson Co.), The concert features a double-bill of Ravel as the program begins with his sunlit Alborada del gracioso, and later features the composer’s highly popular orchestral experiment: Boléro . The centerpiece for the night is the world premiere of Shaosheng Li’s Wind Across a Cloudless Firmament. Join us for The Dream of America—an unforgettable celebration of… Admission Cost: $11 - $71. Saturday, March 14, 2026, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM. Koger Center Auditorium.

Arboretum Open House

W. Gordon Belser Arboretum Monthly Open House, Take a nature break and bring a friend to USC's wildlife preserve in the heart of Columbia. Open House is the 3rd Sunday of every month, with ecology-themed presentations from faculty and regional experts twice each semester. 4080 Bloomwood Rd. Columbia, SC 29205, Weekly Hours: Wednesdays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. - 12, Thursdays 4 - 6 p.m. (winter hours 3-5 p.m.), Volunteers welcome! Contact us at arboretum@sc.edu to let us know you're coming. Find all our Open House speakers and Book Club dates here. ---, Visit the botanic garden horseshoe, pollinator display gardens, and walk through 10 biomes of South Carolina along a 1/3 mile trail. Special stops are at the longleaf pines atop a bluff of fossilized sand dunes, the boardwalk overlooking a bald cypress swamp, a grove of Atlantic white cypress in the central wetland, and the allee of ancient tulip trees in the ravine. Pause at the waterfall or other scenic stops and take in the gifts of nature, here… Admission Cost: Free. Sunday, March 15, 2026, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM.

Family Time with the Phil

About This Show Get ready to embrace the magic of live symphonic music in a welcoming atmosphere where families can create lasting memories together. Freedom and fun abound with “Family Time with the Phil” – an inclusive concert-matinee that invites audiences to sing, dance, and enjoy the symphony without the expected barriers of a live performance. Whether you’re tapping your feet to lively tunes, singing along with the orchestra, taking a break to visit the quiet room or simply letting the music move you – this experience promises joy and excitement for the whole family. Did we mention there’s an instrument “petting zoo” and some off-duty service pups that you can meet! Admission Cost: Free Admission. Sunday, March 15, 2026, 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM. Koger Center Auditorium.

Creating Accessible Word Documents

Monday, March 16, 2026, 2:20 PM - 2:50 PM, All course materials hosted on USC platforms, including Blackboard, must be digitally accessible. This session focuses on Microsoft Word and covers how to use heading styles, the accessibility checker, and other tools to create accessible syllabi, assignments, and handouts. This is an online only webinar; there is no in-person attendance option.  To attend the webinar, register here. Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Monday, March 16, 2026, 2:20 PM – 2:50 PM. See event description for more details.

Introduction to R using RStudio

This workshop will introduce users to the R programming language using RStudio. R is an easy-to-learn programming language often used for scientific and statistical data processing. RStudio is an integrated development environment for and graphical user interface to the R language which greatly simplifies programming in R. Together they combine to provide a free and convenient programming platform for data analysis and visualization. Register at: https://libcal.library.sc.edu/event/15990958. Monday, March 16, 2026, 3:55 PM – 5:10 PM. See event description for more details.

U.S. Air Force Band Concert

About This Show The U.S. Air Force Heritage of America Band is coming to the Koger Center on March 16 at 7:30 p.m.! This concert is free and open to the public. About the Ensemble Activated in 1941, The United States Air Force Heritage of America Band has a rich history of inspiring public patriotism and enhancing esprit de corps among all the US military service branches. These world-class musicians are stationed at Joint Base Langley-Eustis in Hampton, VA. They travel throughout the Carolinas, Mid-Atlantic, and Northeast regions, presenting over 350 events annually for the general public and in support of Airman morale and protocol events. The USAF Heritage of America Band remains at the forefront of communicating Air Force core values and preserving and enriching America’s military and musical heritage into the 21st century. Admission Cost: Free Admission. Monday, March 16, 2026, 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM. Koger Center Auditorium.

Stargazing at the Melton Observatory

This historic observatory adjacent to the Horseshoe of the USC Columbia campus (1429 Greene Street) is currently open to the public on clear Monday nights from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm EST (9:00 pm to 11:00 pm during EDT), weather permitting. Anyone is welcome to come by and observe through the 16-inch Cassegrain telescope in the dome and other small telescopes on the observatory deck. See the Moon, planets, stars, clusters, and more through our telescopes free of charge! To find out if the observatory is going to be open on a particular Monday night, please see its Facebook page or call 803-777-8105 or 803-777-8104. Admission Cost: Free. Monday, March 16, 2026, 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM. Melton Observatory 201.

Blackboard Updates: What’s New in Blackboard and What is Coming Down the Pipeline?

Tuesday, March 17, 2026, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM, Stay current on the latest Blackboard features and enhancements. This session is your opportunity to hear directly from eLearning Services and representatives from Blackboard, Inc. We'll cover: Recent and upcoming updates , New tools and feature enhancements , Best practices for implementation , Live Q&A with Blackboard administrators and product experts , This session is open to all faculty and staff. Attend in person or join virtually via Microsoft Teams. 1244 Blossom Street, 3rd Floor Auditorium, Room 320, To attend virtually, register here. Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Tuesday, March 17, 2026, 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM. See event description for more details.

Libraries, Course Materials, and You

Tuesday, March 17, 2026, 1:15 PM - 2:30 PM, In this introductory workshop, participants will learn how publishing models affect students’ abilities to access affordable course materials and how libraries can acquire learning resources for the classroom. Workshop facilitators will demonstrate how to use the library to provide affordable and equitable access to course materials through e-reserves, purchasing, video streaming, and open educational resources. This is a required session for a certificate of completion in Teaching with the Library. Center for Teaching Excellence, Thomas Cooper Library, Level 5, Room L511, This is an in-person event that requires physical attendance; there is no virtual attendance option. Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Tuesday, March 17, 2026, 1:15 PM – 2:30 PM. Thomas Cooper Library L511.

Addressing Common Violations

Wednesday, March 18, 2026, 10:05 AM - 11:20 AM, In this session we will discuss the academic misconduct trends we are seeing online and in person with our students. Additionally, we will discuss how to identify and address these common violations while maintaining a productive instructor/student relationship. This is a required session for a certificate of completion in Fostering Proactive Learning Environments. This is an online only webinar; there is no in-person attendance option.  To attend the webinar, register here. Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Wednesday, March 18, 2026, 10:05 AM – 11:20 AM. See event description for more details.

First-Gen Connections Fair

First Generation Center — Connection Fair  Join us on March 18, 2026, at Maxcy for a vibrant Connection Fair created just for first-gen students! Learn about campus resources, meet supportive partners, and discover opportunities to help you thrive. Date: March 18, 2026 Time: 11:30am-1:00pm Location: Maxcy , Come connect, learn, and build your community—we can’t wait to see you there! Admission Cost: free. Wednesday, March 18, 2026, 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM. See event description for more details.

Responding to An Active Shooter

Wednesday, March 18, 2026, 1:10 PM - 2:00 PM, Hear from USCPD what to do to keep your students and yourself safe. This seminar is designed to provide guidance on what to do in a shooting incident, how to be prepared, how to think safely and how to recognize a potential problem, specifically in campus and classroom contexts. Center for Teaching Excellence, Thomas Cooper Library, Level 5, Room L511, This is an in-person event that requires physical attendance; register here to attend. Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Wednesday, March 18, 2026, 1:10 PM – 2:00 PM. Thomas Cooper Library L511.

SG Student Senate Weekly Session

Wednesday, March 18, 2026, 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM. Russell House Theater.

The McNair Conversations on the American South: Coach Frank Beamer

  The McCausland College of Arts and Sciences at the University of South Carolina is pleased to welcome Frank Beamer as the 2026 Honoree for the McNair Conversations on the American South. The talk will be hosted by Mark Smith, Director of the Institute for Southern Studies and Carolina Distinguished Professor of History. Frank Beamer is a legendary American college football coach, best known for his highly successful 29-season tenure (1987-2015) at his alma mater, Virginia Tech, where he became the winningest coach in program history, leading them to numerous conference titles, 23 consecutive bowl games (including a BCS National Championship appearance in the 1999 season), and earning national acclaim for building "Beamer Ball". A former Hokies player, he began his head coaching career at Murray State before returning to Tech to build it into a national powerhouse, leaving a legacy of hard work, discipline, and consistent success, and was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2018. Dad to… . Admission Cost: Free. Wednesday, March 18, 2026, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM. See event description for more details.

Achievements in Blackboard Learn

Thursday, March 19, 2026, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM, Extrinsic motivators, such as praise or tangible incentives, can be an effective way to motivate students to engage and perform well in your courses. Recognizing their accomplishments demonstrates your appreciation for their efforts. Using Achievements allows you to foster motivation and celebrate student participation in a meaningful way. In this workshop, participants will learn how to use Achievements in Blackboard to incentivize increased student engagement. This is an online only webinar; there is no in-person attendance option.  To attend the webinar, register here. Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Thursday, March 19, 2026, 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM. See event description for more details.

Engaging Students as Partners in Learning

Thursday, March 19, 2026, 2:50 PM - 4:05 PM, Are you looking for new opportunities to engage students in the learning process? What about the teaching process? Co-creating aspects of your course with students can go beyond foundational forms of active learning to invite students into the learning process in ways that provide agency and autonomy, from something as simple as choosing a topic to helping to plan large assessments. In this session, you will use the lens of relational pedagogy to discover what co-creation of learning means, identify some of the forms it can take, and reflect on which approaches could be right for you and your students. This is an online only webinar; there is no in-person attendance option.  To attend the webinar, register here. Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Thursday, March 19, 2026, 2:50 PM – 4:05 PM. See event description for more details.

C.S. Lewis "The Screwtape Letters"

About This Show A battle is being waged for your soul from an office in hell! Witness a fast-paced, tour-de-force performance in this acclaimed adaptation of C.S. Lewis’ satiric masterpiece. This international hit offers a faithful stage adaptation of Lewis’ The Screwtape Letters, following Screwtape, a senior tempter in Hell, as he schemes to capture the soul of an unsuspecting human on earth and reveals spiritual warfare in vivid, humorous and powerful ways. The Screwtape Letters run time is 90 minutes with no intermission. It is recommended for ages 13 and older, and children under age 4 are not admitted. Admission Cost: $76 - $86. Thursday, March 19, 2026, 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM. Koger Center Auditorium.

University Chorus Spring Concert

Join the University Chorus as they present their Spring concert. Free and open to the public. Shandon Presbyterian Church, 607 Woodrow Street, Columbia, SC. Admission Cost: FREE. Thursday, March 19, 2026, 7:30 PM – 8:30 PM. See Description for Event Location.

Writing Your Teaching Philosophy for Graduate Students

Friday, March 20, 2026, 11:45 AM - 1:10 PM, A teaching philosophy statement provides a concise description of an instructor’s teaching approach, methods, and experience. Colleges and universities request a teaching philosophy statement from applicants for faculty positions, and some higher education institutions require one as part of the tenure and promotion consideration process. What is your teaching philosophy? What should you write or include? What if you have limited teaching experience? This webinar will help you articulate your teaching philosophy in a concise, effective essay. We will discuss the statement’s purpose, different aspects of your teaching experiences that can be included, and best practices and strategies for composing the statement. This is a working webinar, requiring that you do some reflective writing in advance, so that the webinar itself can include individual writing, group discussion, and feedback. Participants will leave with an outline of their statement, written… Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Friday, March 20, 2026, 11:45 AM – 1:10 PM. See event description for more details.

Explorance Blue Coordinator Training (Lunch and Learn Style)

Friday, March 20, 2026, 12:00 PM - 12:45 PM, Join us for a focused Blue Coordinator training session where we’ll walk through the Course Download Tool, FileSub upload process, key dates, and the updated Coordinator Guide. This is a great opportunity to get ready for the upcoming Filesub deadline and connect with fellow coordinators. This is an online only webinar; there is no in-person attendance option.  To attend the webinar, register here. Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Friday, March 20, 2026, 12:00 PM – 12:45 PM. See event description for more details.

Vista Art Night: Cait Maloney

About This Show As a member of the Vista Guild, the Koger Center for the Arts partnered with The Jasper Project to open a new rotating art space, titled The Nook. March 2026’s featured artist in The Nook is Cait Maloney. ARTIST BIOGRAPHY “I help businesses and individuals visually communicate through thoughtful, engaging and effective design.  I have had a passion for visual communication and carbohydrates as long as I can remember. Growing up in a small town in upstate New York, I was one of few with a serious interest in art and design, but I knew I could make a career of it when one of my early works was stealthily heisted from a maximum security bulletin board in high school. I went on to navigate the waters of art school and earned a BFA in illustration from Syracuse University. I’m currently based in Columbia, South Carolina, working as senior art director for Flock and Rally while also doing specialty illustration, design and mural projects; creating new things every day and slowly sweating… Admission Cost: Free Admission. Friday, March 20, 2026, 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM. Koger Center Upstairs Gallery.

Celebrate Columbia's Cultural Leaders

About This Show One Columbia for Arts and Culture is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated return of the Stephen G. Morrison Visionary Award. After a brief hiatus, this prestigious honor is back to spotlight an individual whose passion, vision, and leadership have fundamentally shaped the arts, history, and cultural fabric of the City of Columbia. Nominations are officially open for this distinguished award, which recognizes those who embody the generous spirit and dedication to civic vitality championed by Stephen G. Morrison, an early leader of One Columbia. The ideal recipient is someone who combines profound vision with actionable leadership to foster creative social change and leave a lasting mark on our society. To nominate a visionary, submissions must include a formal nomination letter detailing specific examples of the nominee’s impact and leadership capabilities. All nomination materials must be submitted via email to info@onecolumbiasc.com by the deadline of February 28, 2026. Admission Cost: Free Admission. Friday, March 20, 2026, 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM. Koger Center for the Arts.

Southern Exposure: Holy Visions

A virtuosic all-female vocal new music super group, including USC's own Rachel Calloway, comes together in Columbia for a special night centered around John Zorn’s The Holy Visions. Patrons may reserve seats and support the Southeast’s most adventurous music series! A gift of $150 secures a seat for the entire 2025-26 season. To donate online, click here or contact Brad Martin at brad.martin@sc.edu, 803-777-0704. Admission Cost: FREE. Friday, March 20, 2026, 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM. School of Music 206 Recital Hall.

LifeChance: Gala of the Stars

Bringing people together through the celebration of ballet and a special night when ballet's stars align! For tickets, please visit https://secure.kogercenterforthearts.com/Online/default.asp. Admission Cost: $17 - $39. Saturday, March 21, 2026, 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM. Koger Center Auditorium.

Music for Entertainment from the Renaissance

A celebration of music from the Renaissance for keyboards, instrumental ensembles, and voices performed by USC School of Music faculty and students. Admission Cost: FREE. Sunday, March 22, 2026, 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM. School of Music 206 Recital Hall.

Wind Ensemble: O Earth O Stars

Cormac Cannon, conductor, David Warren, guest conductor, Jennifer Parker-Harley, flute, Claire Bryant, cello, The Wind Ensemble celebrates the first week of spring with a program inspired by the Earth and the stars. D’un Matin De Printemps (“Of a Spring Morning”) was composed by Lili Boulanger, sister of the acclaimed composition teacher Nadia Boulanger. USC School of Music faculty Jennifer Parker-Harley and Claire Bryant are featured on David Maslanka’s reflective and stunningly beautiful O Earth O Stars, while Danyhew’s Magnolia Star elicits images of a mid-twentieth-century ride on a train of the same name. The concert concludes with a brand-new work by University of Michigan composition professor Erik Santos inspired the concept of “Pangea Proxima,” a future supercontinent configuration of Earth’s land masses. Program: Boulanger/Hontz, D’un Matin De Printemps, Maslanka, O Earth O Stars, Danyhew, Magnolia Star, Santos, Pangea Proxima (Consortium Premiere). Admission Cost: FREE. Sunday, March 22, 2026, 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM. Koger Center Auditorium, See Description for Event Location.

Teaching with Compassion: Trauma-Informed Approaches for Higher Education

Monday, March 23, 2026, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, As part of the Compassionate Carolina initiative, this workshop helps faculty and teaching assistants build classrooms grounded in care, connection, and courage. Participants will learn how trauma impacts student learning and behavior, and explore practical, trauma-informed strategies to promote psychological safety, inclusion, and resilience—for both students and themselves. This is a required session for a certificate of completion in Mental Health and Well-being Competency. Center for Teaching Excellence, Thomas Cooper Library, Level 5, Room L511, This is an in-person event that requires physical attendance; register here to attend. Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Monday, March 23, 2026, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM. Thomas Cooper Library L511.

The Student Experience Project: Faculty Community and Growth Mindset

Monday, March 23, 2026, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM, The Student Experience Project (SEP) is a national higher education initiative that helps faculty support a growth mindset in their courses. At USC, SEP brings together faculty from different schools, colleges, and campuses in a shared community of practice. Participants work together to collect and respond to student feedback during the term. In this webinar, a panel of faculty members will share their experiences in the SEP community. They will discuss how SEP’s low-lift, easy-to-use practices have influenced their teaching and engagement with students. This is an online only webinar; there is no in-person attendance option.  To attend the webinar, register here. Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Monday, March 23, 2026, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM. See event description for more details.

Name Dropping: Building Rapport Through the Science of Names

Monday, March 23, 2026, 2:20 PM - 3:10 PM, Did you know that there is a science behind learning names? Names are an important part of identity and key to establishing rapport as you build your learning communities. Facilitating learning names by everyone in your class increases a sense of belonging and enhances opportunities for engagement. In this session, you will reflect on personal and global naming conventions, identify cognitive challenges with learning names, prioritize learning names as a pedagogy of care, and apply science of names to classroom practices. This is an elective session for a certificate of completion in Teaching Towards Inclusive Excellence. This is an online only webinar; there is no in-person attendance option.  To attend the webinar, register here. Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Monday, March 23, 2026, 2:20 PM – 3:10 PM. See event description for more details.

Stargazing at the Melton Observatory

This historic observatory adjacent to the Horseshoe of the USC Columbia campus (1429 Greene Street) is currently open to the public on clear Monday nights from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm EST (9:00 pm to 11:00 pm during EDT), weather permitting. Anyone is welcome to come by and observe through the 16-inch Cassegrain telescope in the dome and other small telescopes on the observatory deck. See the Moon, planets, stars, clusters, and more through our telescopes free of charge! To find out if the observatory is going to be open on a particular Monday night, please see its Facebook page or call 803-777-8105 or 803-777-8104. Admission Cost: Free. Monday, March 23, 2026, 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM. Melton Observatory 201.

Become an AI Champion in Blackboard!

Tuesday, March 24, 2026, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM, Discover how to harness Blackboard Ultra’s built-in AI tools to save time, spark creativity, and enhance student engagement. This hands-on workshop will introduce powerful features like the AI Design Assistant, AI Test Generator, and AI-powered Rubric Generator. We’ll provide a live demo and plenty of time for questions, so you can explore how to confidently integrate AI into your own courses. Join us and take the first step toward becoming an AI-savvy educator! This is an online only webinar; there is no in-person attendance option.  To attend the webinar, register here. Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Tuesday, March 24, 2026, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM. See event description for more details.

Leave Benefits and the FMLA (Family and Medical Leave Act)

Tuesday, March 24, 2026, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM, This webinar will provide an overview of employee leave benefits and emphasize employee leave protection under the FMLA when facing a medical illness for either one's own health condition or to care for a qualifying family member. This is an online only webinar; there is no in-person attendance option.  To attend the webinar, register here. Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Tuesday, March 24, 2026, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM. See event description for more details.

USC All Majors Career & Internship Fair - Day 1

Register today for the All-Majors Career & Internship Fair, Recruiters from a broad range of industries and graduate institutions will attend this event to showcase their full-time roles, internship opportunities, and graduate/professional school programs. Date:   Wednesday, March 26/Thursday March 27, Time:   10:00 AM - 2:00 PM both days.  Location:  Russell House University Union Ballroom, Columbia SC 29201, Pre-Registration through your Handshake account is encouraged, but not required, to attend our in-person career fairs. This event is open to USC students and alumni only. The full list of employers will be available a few days before the fair. Check Handshake periodically as new employers are added as they register. Tuesday, March 24, 2026, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM. Russell House Ballroom.

Recovery Ally

Tuesday, March 24, 2026, 10:05 AM - 11:20 AM, Through Recovery Ally workshops, Gamecock Recovery strives to empower students, faculty and staff to make campus more supportive of students in recovery from substance use disorder. Learn to: confront myths and stigma about substance use disorder; use and model acts of allyship in everyday interactions; and identify, access, and direct people to recovery resources at USC. The Recovery Ally workshop is presented in a flipped-classroom model that includes a self-paced video module as prework (estimated 20 minutes) and an in-person session. Please review the recorded content prior to your workshop session. This is a required session for a certificate of completion in Mental Health and Well-being Competency. Center for Teaching Excellence, Thomas Cooper Library, Level 5, Room L511, This is an in-person event that requires physical attendance; register here to attend. Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Tuesday, March 24, 2026, 10:05 AM – 11:20 AM. Thomas Cooper Library L511.

Prioritizing Your Well-Being

Tuesday, March 24, 2026, 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM, Join us for an interactive session on how to thrive, not just survive, during the academic year. In this session, we will discuss the importance of exercise, self-care practices, and the role of nutrition and sleep in maintaining energy and focus. This is an online only webinar; there is no in-person attendance option.  To attend the webinar, register here. Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Tuesday, March 24, 2026, 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM. See event description for more details.

Somatic Subtleties & Sound: Living Beyond the Workplace

Tuesday, March 24, 2026, 1:30 PM - 2:15 PM, This session invites you to reconnect with your body’s innate wisdom through gentle somatic movement and restorative sound practices. We’ll explore how breath, subtle movement, and vibration can help release tension, calm the nervous system, and nurture resilience. By stepping away from work’s constant demands, participants will experience how embodied awareness and sound-based practices like humming, toning, or sound bath elements can support emotional balance, deepen rest, and expand creativity. Center for Teaching Excellence, Thomas Cooper Library, Level 5, Room L511, This is an in-person event that requires physical attendance; register here to attend. Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Tuesday, March 24, 2026, 1:30 PM – 2:15 PM. Thomas Cooper Library L511.

Suicide Prevention Training

Tuesday, March 24, 2026, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM, This training is open to students, faculty, and staff and teaches three simple steps—Question, Persuade, and Refer—to help save a life from suicide. Participants will learn how to recognize warning signs of suicide, engage in supportive conversation, and refer individuals to professional resources. Center for Health and Well-Being, 1401 Devine St. CTRHWB Room 215, Columbia, SC 29208, This is an in-person event that requires physical attendance; register here to attend. Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Tuesday, March 24, 2026, 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM. See event description for more details.

Graduate Student Research Toolbox

Learn about the library resources and services that are critical for success in graduate research. Topics to be covered include citation management tools, locating dissertations and theses, interlibrary loan, and research support services. Register at: https://libcal.library.sc.edu/event/15746257. Tuesday, March 24, 2026, 2:50 PM – 3:35 PM. See event description for more details.

Balancing Your Role as an Instructor and Graduate Student

Tuesday, March 24, 2026, 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Teaching while trying to meet all of your graduate school responsibilities is a unique challenge in boundary setting, prioritization and time management. This presentation provides tools and resources for successfully balancing your role as an instructor and student while emphasizing the importance of self-care. Center for Teaching Excellence, Thomas Cooper Library, Level 5, Room L511, This is an in-person event that requires physical attendance; register here to attend. Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Tuesday, March 24, 2026, 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM. Thomas Cooper Library L511.

"Surrounded and Beset By Enemies": Eighteenth-century Catawba Women's Responses to War

Abstract: In the 1700s, Catawba women responded to the world around them by reshaping their lives in response to the crises occurring near their villages. However, they did not sit by complacently, waiting for history to happen to them. Instead, Catawba women pivoted in response to the profound societal upheavals and contributed their physical and emotional labor in caring for their people. Bauer will discuss how Catawba women reassessed foodways production, burial practices, and self-defense strategies because their families’ lives and the Nation's survival depended on such measures.   Bio: Brooke Bauer, Ph.D. is a citizen of the Catawba Nation in South Carolina and an Associate Professor in the Department of History at the University of Tennessee at Knoxville. She is the author of the award-winning book Becoming Catawba: Catawba Indian Women and Nation-building, 1540-1840. She has published in the online Oxford Research Encyclopedia of American History and the Journal of the Early Republic, and… Admission Cost: Free! Tuesday, March 24, 2026, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM. See event description for more details.

The Balance of Care and Accountability

Wednesday, March 25, 2026, 10:00 AM - 10:50 AM, This interactive training is designed for USC faculty, staff, and others who supervise student employees, advise student leaders, or support student organizations. Participants will explore strategies for navigating challenging conversations with students while maintaining appropriate accountability and providing empathy, care, and support. Through discussion and skill-building practice, attendees will gain tools to recognize student distress, respond effectively, and connect students to campus resources when needed. The session emphasizes balancing professional expectations with a student-centered approach that promotes well-being, growth, and responsibility. Learning Objectives, , Describe the role of the Care Team on USC's campus and explain the process for referring a student of concern , Recognize behavioral, academic, and interpersonal indicators that a student may be experiencing distress , Identify campus resources and support systems… Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Wednesday, March 25, 2026, 10:00 AM – 10:50 AM. See event description for more details.

USC All Majors Career & Internship Fair - Day 2

Register today for the All-Majors Career & Internship Fair, Recruiters from a broad range of industries and graduate institutions will attend this event to showcase their full-time roles, internship opportunities, and graduate/professional school programs. Date:   Wednesday, March 26/Thursday March 27, Time:   10:00 AM - 2:00 PM both days.  Location:  Russell House University Union Ballroom, Columbia SC 29201, Pre-Registration through your Handshake account is encouraged, but not required, to attend our in-person career fairs. This event is open to USC students and alumni only. The full list of employers will be available a few days before the fair. Check Handshake periodically as new employers are added as they register. Wednesday, March 25, 2026, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM. Russell House Ballroom.

Leadership, Power, and Empathy: A Virtual Reality Activation

Wednesday, March 25, 2026, 11:00 AM - 1:30 PM, This immersive leadership development session examines the inverse relationship between power and empathy and its implications for leading and engaging effectively in a global business environment. Through a highly interactive and facilitated discussion, participants will explore how positional power can shape perception, decision-making, and interpersonal dynamics, and why empathy is a critical capability for ethical, inclusive, and high-performing leadership. Grounded in practical scenarios, the session challenges participants to reflect on how leaders influence others across cultures, identities, and organizational hierarchies. Following the facilitated dialogue, participants will complete a brief pre-VR assessment and then be immersed in a Virtual Reality (VR) empathy activation designed to deepen self-awareness and perspective-taking by placing them in the lived realities of others. Next, participants will complete a post-VR assessment and guided… Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Wednesday, March 25, 2026, 11:00 AM – 1:30 PM. See event description for more details.

Donuts with the Dean of Students

Donuts with the Dean of Students are an informal way to connect with the Office of the Dean of Students.  Stop by our table in the Russell House University Union for a chat and snack with the DoS staff or just grab a free donut.  We want to hear your voice as your Gamecock experience is important to us. Wednesday, March 25, 2026, 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM. RHUU Russell House 2nd Floor Lobby Space 01, RHUU Russell House 2nd Floor Lobby Space 02.

Virtual Environments Community of Practice (VECoP)

Wednesday, March 25, 2026, 12:00 PM - 12:50 PM, The Virtual Environments Community of Practice is planning ways to integrate virtual reality, augmented reality and mixed reality into teaching and learning environments at USC. Meetings are open to faculty, staff and students. This is an online only meeting; there is no in-person attendance option.  To attend the meeting, register here. Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Wednesday, March 25, 2026, 12:00 PM – 12:50 PM. See event description for more details.

Research Posters 101

Students will learn how to create an effective research poster and will receive guidance on how to prepare for a poster presentation. Admission Cost: $0. Wednesday, March 25, 2026, 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM. Russell House University Union 205.

SG Student Senate Weekly Session

Wednesday, March 25, 2026, 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM. Russell House Theater.

Broadway in Columbia presents Wicked

About This Show See it LIVE. Remember it forever. Wicked, Columbia’s most popular musical, looks at what happened in the Land of Oz…but from a different angle. Long before Dorothy arrives, there is another young woman, born with emerald-green skin–smart, fiery, misunderstood, and possessing an extraordinary talent. When she meets a bubbly blonde who exceptionally popular, their initial rivalry turns into the unlikeliest of friendships…until the world decides to call one “good,” and the other “wicked.” From the first electrifying note to the final breathtaking moment, Wicked, the untold true story of the Witches of Oz, transfixes audiences with its wildly inventive story. For tickets, please visit https://secure.kogercenterforthearts.com/Online/default.asp. Admission Cost: $95 - $135. Wednesday, March 25, 2026, 7:30 PM – 10:00 PM. Koger Center Auditorium.

Creating Academic Spaces that Foster Success for First-Generation College Students

Thursday, March 26, 2026, 1:15 PM - 2:30 PM, Over 20% of USC students identify as first-generation (first-gen). With the launch of the First-Generation Center and First-Generation Living and Learning Community in fall 2024, a heightened emphasis has been placed on first-generation student success. This interactive session will present both national and USC-specific data, along with effective strategies and best practices for supporting first-generation students. Enjoy a lively discussion with colleagues and students. This is an elective session for a certificate of completion in Understanding USC Student Populations and Experiences. Center for Teaching Excellence, Thomas Cooper Library, Level 5, Room L511, This is an in-person event that requires physical attendance; register here to attend. Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Thursday, March 26, 2026, 1:15 PM – 2:30 PM. Thomas Cooper Library L511.

Broadway in Columbia presents Wicked

About This Show See it LIVE. Remember it forever. Wicked, Columbia’s most popular musical, looks at what happened in the Land of Oz…but from a different angle. Long before Dorothy arrives, there is another young woman, born with emerald-green skin–smart, fiery, misunderstood, and possessing an extraordinary talent. When she meets a bubbly blonde who exceptionally popular, their initial rivalry turns into the unlikeliest of friendships…until the world decides to call one “good,” and the other “wicked.” From the first electrifying note to the final breathtaking moment, Wicked, the untold true story of the Witches of Oz, transfixes audiences with its wildly inventive story. For tickets, please visit https://secure.kogercenterforthearts.com/Online/default.asp. Admission Cost: $95 - $135. Thursday, March 26, 2026, 2:00 PM – 4:30 PM. Koger Center Auditorium.

The Student Success Center: How Your Students Can Utilize Peer-led Academic Support

Thursday, March 26, 2026, 3:00 PM - 3:45 PM, Learn how the University’s Student Success Center can support your students! Including Supplemental Instruction, peer tutoring, peer writing & communications, peer academic success coaching, money management, and graduate student support. Center for Teaching Excellence, Thomas Cooper Library, Level 5, Room L511, This is an in-person event that requires physical attendance; register here to attend. Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Thursday, March 26, 2026, 3:00 PM – 3:45 PM. Thomas Cooper Library L511.

Broadway in Columbia presents Wicked

About This Show See it LIVE. Remember it forever. Wicked, Columbia’s most popular musical, looks at what happened in the Land of Oz…but from a different angle. Long before Dorothy arrives, there is another young woman, born with emerald-green skin–smart, fiery, misunderstood, and possessing an extraordinary talent. When she meets a bubbly blonde who exceptionally popular, their initial rivalry turns into the unlikeliest of friendships…until the world decides to call one “good,” and the other “wicked.” From the first electrifying note to the final breathtaking moment, Wicked, the untold true story of the Witches of Oz, transfixes audiences with its wildly inventive story. For tickets, please visit https://secure.kogercenterforthearts.com/Online/default.asp. Admission Cost: $95 - $135. Thursday, March 26, 2026, 7:30 PM – 10:00 PM. Koger Center Auditorium.

Explorance Blue Faculty Training (Lunch & Learn Style)

Friday, March 27, 2026, 12:00 PM - 12:45 PM, In preparation for upcoming course surveys, this session will introduce Explorance Blue, our new course survey tool. We’ll walk through the entire process—from selecting your two personalized questions to encouraging student participation. We’ll also review the instructor report, including what it looks like and when you can expect to receive it after the survey period concludes. This is an online only webinar; there is no in-person attendance option.  To attend the webinar, register here. Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Friday, March 27, 2026, 12:00 PM – 12:45 PM. See event description for more details.

Broadway in Columbia presents Wicked

About This Show See it LIVE. Remember it forever. Wicked, Columbia’s most popular musical, looks at what happened in the Land of Oz…but from a different angle. Long before Dorothy arrives, there is another young woman, born with emerald-green skin–smart, fiery, misunderstood, and possessing an extraordinary talent. When she meets a bubbly blonde who exceptionally popular, their initial rivalry turns into the unlikeliest of friendships…until the world decides to call one “good,” and the other “wicked.” From the first electrifying note to the final breathtaking moment, Wicked, the untold true story of the Witches of Oz, transfixes audiences with its wildly inventive story. For tickets, please visit https://secure.kogercenterforthearts.com/Online/default.asp. Admission Cost: $95 - $135. Friday, March 27, 2026, 7:30 PM – 10:00 PM. Koger Center Auditorium.

Broadway in Columbia presents Wicked

About This Show See it LIVE. Remember it forever. Wicked, Columbia’s most popular musical, looks at what happened in the Land of Oz…but from a different angle. Long before Dorothy arrives, there is another young woman, born with emerald-green skin–smart, fiery, misunderstood, and possessing an extraordinary talent. When she meets a bubbly blonde who exceptionally popular, their initial rivalry turns into the unlikeliest of friendships…until the world decides to call one “good,” and the other “wicked.” From the first electrifying note to the final breathtaking moment, Wicked, the untold true story of the Witches of Oz, transfixes audiences with its wildly inventive story. For tickets, please visit https://secure.kogercenterforthearts.com/Online/default.asp. Admission Cost: $95 - $135. Saturday, March 28, 2026, 2:00 PM – 4:30 PM. Koger Center Auditorium.

Broadway in Columbia presents Wicked

About This Show See it LIVE. Remember it forever. Wicked, Columbia’s most popular musical, looks at what happened in the Land of Oz…but from a different angle. Long before Dorothy arrives, there is another young woman, born with emerald-green skin–smart, fiery, misunderstood, and possessing an extraordinary talent. When she meets a bubbly blonde who exceptionally popular, their initial rivalry turns into the unlikeliest of friendships…until the world decides to call one “good,” and the other “wicked.” From the first electrifying note to the final breathtaking moment, Wicked, the untold true story of the Witches of Oz, transfixes audiences with its wildly inventive story. For tickets, please visit https://secure.kogercenterforthearts.com/Online/default.asp. Admission Cost: $95 - $135. Saturday, March 28, 2026, 7:30 PM – 10:00 PM. Koger Center Auditorium.

Broadway in Columbia presents Wicked

About This Show See it LIVE. Remember it forever. Wicked, Columbia’s most popular musical, looks at what happened in the Land of Oz…but from a different angle. Long before Dorothy arrives, there is another young woman, born with emerald-green skin–smart, fiery, misunderstood, and possessing an extraordinary talent. When she meets a bubbly blonde who exceptionally popular, their initial rivalry turns into the unlikeliest of friendships…until the world decides to call one “good,” and the other “wicked.” From the first electrifying note to the final breathtaking moment, Wicked, the untold true story of the Witches of Oz, transfixes audiences with its wildly inventive story. For tickets, please visit https://secure.kogercenterforthearts.com/Online/default.asp. Admission Cost: $95 - $135. Sunday, March 29, 2026, 1:00 PM – 3:30 PM. Koger Center Auditorium.

Broadway in Columbia presents Wicked

About This Show See it LIVE. Remember it forever. Wicked, Columbia’s most popular musical, looks at what happened in the Land of Oz…but from a different angle. Long before Dorothy arrives, there is another young woman, born with emerald-green skin–smart, fiery, misunderstood, and possessing an extraordinary talent. When she meets a bubbly blonde who exceptionally popular, their initial rivalry turns into the unlikeliest of friendships…until the world decides to call one “good,” and the other “wicked.” From the first electrifying note to the final breathtaking moment, Wicked, the untold true story of the Witches of Oz, transfixes audiences with its wildly inventive story. For tickets, please visit https://secure.kogercenterforthearts.com/Online/default.asp. Admission Cost: $95 - $135. Sunday, March 29, 2026, 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM. Koger Center Auditorium.

Universally Designed Assessments

Monday, March 30, 2026, 10:50 AM - 11:40 AM, Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is a proactive approach to making course materials more accessible, but its principles can also enhance how students express their understanding of course content. In this workshop, we will explore strategies for engaging with students who may approach assessments in unexpected ways and how to design more inclusive assessments that allow for diverse demonstrations of learning. We will also focus on designing assessments efficiently, prioritizing student agency while minimizing instructor burnout. Learning Outcomes, Design assessments differentiated for learners' success. , Develop materials that prioritize learners' agency and choice. , This is an online only webinar; there is no in-person attendance option.  To attend the webinar, register here. Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Monday, March 30, 2026, 10:50 AM – 11:40 AM. See event description for more details.

Designing Accessible PowerPoint Presentations

Monday, March 30, 2026, 1:10 PM - 1:40 PM, PowerPoint presentations can powerfully support student learning when designed accessibly. This session explores key accessibility practices such as reading order, alternative text, and slide structure to ensure every student can engage with your visual content. This is an online only webinar; there is no in-person attendance option.  To attend the webinar, register here. Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Monday, March 30, 2026, 1:10 PM – 1:40 PM. See event description for more details.

Stargazing at the Melton Observatory

This historic observatory adjacent to the Horseshoe of the USC Columbia campus (1429 Greene Street) is currently open to the public on clear Monday nights from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm EST (9:00 pm to 11:00 pm during EDT), weather permitting. Anyone is welcome to come by and observe through the 16-inch Cassegrain telescope in the dome and other small telescopes on the observatory deck. See the Moon, planets, stars, clusters, and more through our telescopes free of charge! To find out if the observatory is going to be open on a particular Monday night, please see its Facebook page or call 803-777-8105 or 803-777-8104. Admission Cost: Free. Monday, March 30, 2026, 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM. Melton Observatory 201.

Entering Mentoring: Fostering Independence

Tuesday, March 31, 2026, 2:50 PM - 4:05 PM, An important goal of any mentoring relationship is helping the mentee become independent; yet, defining what an independent mentee knows and can do is often not articulated by the mentor or the mentee. Defining what independence looks like and developing the skills to foster that independence are important to becoming an effective mentor. Defining independence becomes increasingly complex in the context of a larger research team. This is an elective session for the Entering Mentoring certificate of Completion. Center for Teaching Excellence, Thomas Cooper Library, Level 5, Room L511, This is an in-person event that requires physical attendance; register here to attend. Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Tuesday, March 31, 2026, 2:50 PM – 4:05 PM. Thomas Cooper Library L511.

Broadway in Columbia presents Wicked

About This Show See it LIVE. Remember it forever. Wicked, Columbia’s most popular musical, looks at what happened in the Land of Oz…but from a different angle. Long before Dorothy arrives, there is another young woman, born with emerald-green skin–smart, fiery, misunderstood, and possessing an extraordinary talent. When she meets a bubbly blonde who exceptionally popular, their initial rivalry turns into the unlikeliest of friendships…until the world decides to call one “good,” and the other “wicked.” From the first electrifying note to the final breathtaking moment, Wicked, the untold true story of the Witches of Oz, transfixes audiences with its wildly inventive story. For tickets, please visit https://secure.kogercenterforthearts.com/Online/default.asp. Admission Cost: $95 - $135. Tuesday, March 31, 2026, 7:30 PM – 10:00 PM. Koger Center Auditorium.

Breakfast Briefing: Open Access Publishing of Scholarly Monographs

Join us as we bring together library leaders, university press professionals, and faculty to explore practical strategies for expanding open access to USC-authored monographs. Featuring a keynote by Miranda Bennett, Director of Shared Collections at the California Digital Library, the event highlights recent University of California (UC) initiatives that enable UC authors to publish open-access monographs with select university presses at no cost, while revitalizing underutilized backlist titles. Bennett will discuss the challenges and benefits of opening access to long-form scholarship and share a forward-looking vision for how similar efforts could be adapted at the University of South Carolina. Building on her talk a panel discussion with USC leaders and faculty will showcase a modest but impactful library–press open access partnership. This event, held in the Ernest F. Hollings Special Collections Library, is open to USC faculty, administrators, staff, and graduate students. Breakfast will be… Wednesday, April 1, 2026, 9:15 AM – 10:45 AM. See event description for more details.

Active Learning with Generative Artificial Intelligence

Wednesday, April 1, 2026, 1:10 PM - 2:00 PM, Explore how Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) can support the design of interactive, student-centered learning activities. This session explores practical strategies for using GenAI tools—such as ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, and Copilot—to design discussions, case studies, and simulations that enhance engagement and deepen learning. Examine how prompt-writing techniques and intentional use of GenAI can strengthen active learning, promote critical thinking, and create more meaningful learning experiences for your students. By the end of this webinar, participants will be able to: Apply prompt-writing strategies to generate or adapt active learning activities that support engagement and student learning. , Design interactive learning experiences—such as discussions, case studies, and simulations—that leverage GenAI to enhance participation and collaboration. , Evaluate GenAI-generated activities to determine alignment with learning outcomes and… Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Wednesday, April 1, 2026, 1:10 PM – 2:00 PM. See event description for more details.

SG Student Senate Weekly Session

Wednesday, April 1, 2026, 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM. Russell House Theater.

Broadway in Columbia presents Wicked

About This Show See it LIVE. Remember it forever. Wicked, Columbia’s most popular musical, looks at what happened in the Land of Oz…but from a different angle. Long before Dorothy arrives, there is another young woman, born with emerald-green skin–smart, fiery, misunderstood, and possessing an extraordinary talent. When she meets a bubbly blonde who exceptionally popular, their initial rivalry turns into the unlikeliest of friendships…until the world decides to call one “good,” and the other “wicked.” From the first electrifying note to the final breathtaking moment, Wicked, the untold true story of the Witches of Oz, transfixes audiences with its wildly inventive story. For tickets, please visit https://secure.kogercenterforthearts.com/Online/default.asp. Admission Cost: $95 - $135. Wednesday, April 1, 2026, 7:30 PM – 10:00 PM. Koger Center Auditorium.

Explorance Blue Coordinator Training

Thursday, April 2, 2026, 9:00 AM - 9:45 AM, Join us for a focused Blue Coordinator training session where we’ll walk through the Course Download Tool, FileSub upload process, key dates, and the updated Coordinator Guide. This is a great opportunity to get ready for the upcoming Filesub deadline and connect with fellow coordinators. This is an online only webinar; there is no in-person attendance option.  To attend the webinar, register here. Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Thursday, April 2, 2026, 9:00 AM – 9:45 AM. See event description for more details.

Video Captioning and Transcription Made Easy

Thursday, April 2, 2026, 2:20 PM - 2:50 PM, Captioning and transcripts make video content more engaging, flexible, and accessible. Learn how to use USC’s supported video platform, Panopto, to easily add and manage captions for lectures and other recorded materials. This is an online only webinar; there is no in-person attendance option.  To attend the webinar, register here. Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Thursday, April 2, 2026, 2:20 PM – 2:50 PM. See event description for more details.

Broadway in Columbia presents Wicked

About This Show See it LIVE. Remember it forever. Wicked, Columbia’s most popular musical, looks at what happened in the Land of Oz…but from a different angle. Long before Dorothy arrives, there is another young woman, born with emerald-green skin–smart, fiery, misunderstood, and possessing an extraordinary talent. When she meets a bubbly blonde who exceptionally popular, their initial rivalry turns into the unlikeliest of friendships…until the world decides to call one “good,” and the other “wicked.” From the first electrifying note to the final breathtaking moment, Wicked, the untold true story of the Witches of Oz, transfixes audiences with its wildly inventive story. For tickets, please visit https://secure.kogercenterforthearts.com/Online/default.asp. Admission Cost: $95 - $135. Thursday, April 2, 2026, 7:30 PM – 10:00 PM. Koger Center Auditorium.

Broadway in Columbia presents Wicked

About This Show See it LIVE. Remember it forever. Wicked, Columbia’s most popular musical, looks at what happened in the Land of Oz…but from a different angle. Long before Dorothy arrives, there is another young woman, born with emerald-green skin–smart, fiery, misunderstood, and possessing an extraordinary talent. When she meets a bubbly blonde who exceptionally popular, their initial rivalry turns into the unlikeliest of friendships…until the world decides to call one “good,” and the other “wicked.” From the first electrifying note to the final breathtaking moment, Wicked, the untold true story of the Witches of Oz, transfixes audiences with its wildly inventive story. For tickets, please visit https://secure.kogercenterforthearts.com/Online/default.asp. Admission Cost: $95 - $135. Friday, April 3, 2026, 7:30 PM – 10:00 PM. Koger Center Auditorium.

The Antelope Party

, April 3-12, 2026 The Antelope Party  by Eric John Meyer, Directed by Jesse Jou Drayton Hall Theatre, , All is equal and good in the land of Equestria, the colorful kingdom in the classic children’s cartoon My Little Pony. But in an apartment in rural Pennsylvania, where Ben hosts a weekly gathering of “bronies” (cosplaying fans of My Little Pony), things are becoming decidedly less harmonious. An overzealous Neighborhood Watch has begun patrolling the streets, and as its political influence surges, fear and paranoia begin to creep into the bronies’ (and pegasisters’) circle of friendship. “Meyer’s story about a group of lonely outcasts reminds us that acceptance and community can indeed be magical – but sometimes magic can be dark.” – Time Out New York, Contains language and themes that may not be appropriate for young audiences. Get Tickets. Admission Cost: $15 - $22. Friday, April 3, 2026, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM. Drayton Hall 141.

Broadway in Columbia presents Wicked

About This Show See it LIVE. Remember it forever. Wicked, Columbia’s most popular musical, looks at what happened in the Land of Oz…but from a different angle. Long before Dorothy arrives, there is another young woman, born with emerald-green skin–smart, fiery, misunderstood, and possessing an extraordinary talent. When she meets a bubbly blonde who exceptionally popular, their initial rivalry turns into the unlikeliest of friendships…until the world decides to call one “good,” and the other “wicked.” From the first electrifying note to the final breathtaking moment, Wicked, the untold true story of the Witches of Oz, transfixes audiences with its wildly inventive story. For tickets, please visit https://secure.kogercenterforthearts.com/Online/default.asp. Admission Cost: $95 - $135. Saturday, April 4, 2026, 2:00 PM – 4:30 PM. Koger Center Auditorium.

Broadway in Columbia presents Wicked

About This Show See it LIVE. Remember it forever. Wicked, Columbia’s most popular musical, looks at what happened in the Land of Oz…but from a different angle. Long before Dorothy arrives, there is another young woman, born with emerald-green skin–smart, fiery, misunderstood, and possessing an extraordinary talent. When she meets a bubbly blonde who exceptionally popular, their initial rivalry turns into the unlikeliest of friendships…until the world decides to call one “good,” and the other “wicked.” From the first electrifying note to the final breathtaking moment, Wicked, the untold true story of the Witches of Oz, transfixes audiences with its wildly inventive story. For tickets, please visit https://secure.kogercenterforthearts.com/Online/default.asp. Admission Cost: $95 - $135. Saturday, April 4, 2026, 7:30 PM – 10:00 PM. Koger Center Auditorium.

The Antelope Party

, April 3-12, 2026 The Antelope Party  by Eric John Meyer, Directed by Jesse Jou Drayton Hall Theatre, , All is equal and good in the land of Equestria, the colorful kingdom in the classic children’s cartoon My Little Pony. But in an apartment in rural Pennsylvania, where Ben hosts a weekly gathering of “bronies” (cosplaying fans of My Little Pony), things are becoming decidedly less harmonious. An overzealous Neighborhood Watch has begun patrolling the streets, and as its political influence surges, fear and paranoia begin to creep into the bronies’ (and pegasisters’) circle of friendship. “Meyer’s story about a group of lonely outcasts reminds us that acceptance and community can indeed be magical – but sometimes magic can be dark.” – Time Out New York, Contains language and themes that may not be appropriate for young audiences. Get Tickets. Admission Cost: $15 - $22. Saturday, April 4, 2026, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM. Drayton Hall 141.

Broadway in Columbia presents Wicked

About This Show See it LIVE. Remember it forever. Wicked, Columbia’s most popular musical, looks at what happened in the Land of Oz…but from a different angle. Long before Dorothy arrives, there is another young woman, born with emerald-green skin–smart, fiery, misunderstood, and possessing an extraordinary talent. When she meets a bubbly blonde who exceptionally popular, their initial rivalry turns into the unlikeliest of friendships…until the world decides to call one “good,” and the other “wicked.” From the first electrifying note to the final breathtaking moment, Wicked, the untold true story of the Witches of Oz, transfixes audiences with its wildly inventive story. For tickets, please visit https://secure.kogercenterforthearts.com/Online/default.asp. Admission Cost: $95 - $135. Sunday, April 5, 2026, 1:00 PM – 3:30 PM. Koger Center Auditorium.

Broadway in Columbia presents Wicked

About This Show See it LIVE. Remember it forever. Wicked, Columbia’s most popular musical, looks at what happened in the Land of Oz…but from a different angle. Long before Dorothy arrives, there is another young woman, born with emerald-green skin–smart, fiery, misunderstood, and possessing an extraordinary talent. When she meets a bubbly blonde who exceptionally popular, their initial rivalry turns into the unlikeliest of friendships…until the world decides to call one “good,” and the other “wicked.” From the first electrifying note to the final breathtaking moment, Wicked, the untold true story of the Witches of Oz, transfixes audiences with its wildly inventive story. For tickets, please visit https://secure.kogercenterforthearts.com/Online/default.asp. Admission Cost: $95 - $135. Sunday, April 5, 2026, 7:30 PM – 10:00 PM. Koger Center Auditorium.

Stargazing at the Melton Observatory

This historic observatory adjacent to the Horseshoe of the USC Columbia campus (1429 Greene Street) is currently open to the public on clear Monday nights from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm EST (9:00 pm to 11:00 pm during EDT), weather permitting. Anyone is welcome to come by and observe through the 16-inch Cassegrain telescope in the dome and other small telescopes on the observatory deck. See the Moon, planets, stars, clusters, and more through our telescopes free of charge! To find out if the observatory is going to be open on a particular Monday night, please see its Facebook page or call 803-777-8105 or 803-777-8104. Admission Cost: Free. Monday, April 6, 2026, 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM. Melton Observatory 201.

17th Annual James E Clyburn Health Equity Lecture

The Lecture includes a keynote speaker and an awards ceremony. Admission Cost: 0. Tuesday, April 7, 2026, 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM. See event description for more details.

Dealing With the Unexpected: Classroom Disruptions

Tuesday, April 7, 2026, 10:05 AM - 11:20 AM, Engaging in conflict is challenging whether you are an experienced instructor or new to your role. A common strategy is to ignore the behavior due to our own discomfort, concern over retaliation or fear that our intervention may cause more harm or disruption. We will identify what our fears are about classroom disruption and use case study examples to practice strategies to stretch participants' comfort zones. This workshop will also explore Gerald Amada's research from Coping with Misconduct in the College Classroom and provide participants with tangible strategies to prevent and respectfully address disruptive behavior. This is a required session for a certificate of completion in Fostering Proactive Learning Environments. This is an online only webinar; there is no in-person attendance option.  To attend the webinar, register here. Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Tuesday, April 7, 2026, 10:05 AM – 11:20 AM. See event description for more details.

Blackboard Ultra Gradebook: A Deeper Look

Tuesday, April 7, 2026, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM, This workshop is designed for Blackboard users who are familiar with the new Ultra Course View but want a more intensive look at the UCV Gradebook. In this 60-minute session, a consultant from eLearning Services will share best practices and tips & tricks for setting up a Gradebook that works for you, present a live demonstration, and answer questions. This is an online only webinar; there is no in-person attendance option.  To attend the webinar, register here. Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Tuesday, April 7, 2026, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM. See event description for more details.

Game-based Learning Q&A

Tuesday, April 7, 2026, 2:50 PM - 4:05 PM, Are you curious how others are successfully incorporating games into their classroom as a means of active learning? Are you interested in asking what makes their games work or how they pick the game? This webinar will feature panelists from across disciplines discussing their expertise, tips, and answers to your questions. At the end of panel discussions, participants will have the opportunity to share their own experiences. Come join a growing group of educators here at USC who use gaming as active learning in their classrooms! This is an online only webinar; there is no in-person attendance option.  To attend the webinar, register here. Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Tuesday, April 7, 2026, 2:50 PM – 4:05 PM. See event description for more details.

Reimagining Assessment with Generative Artificial Intelligence

Wednesday, April 8, 2026, 12:00 PM - 12:50 PM, Enhance the authenticity, clarity, and meaningfulness of your assessments with Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI). This session explores practical strategies for using GenAI tools—such as ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, and Copilot—to design assessment tasks, generate formative feedback, and support student reflection. Examine how intentional prompting and transparent use of GenAI can strengthen assessment for learning, promote critical thinking, and support deeper student learning. By the end of this webinar, participants will be able to: Differentiate between traditional and GenAI-supported assessment approaches and describe where GenAI can add value. , Apply prompt-writing strategies to design or refine assessments that measure student learning and support learning processes. , Use GenAI tools to generate formative feedback, reflection prompts, and authentic assessment components aligned with course outcomes. , Identify ethical and transparent… Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Wednesday, April 8, 2026, 12:00 PM – 12:50 PM. See event description for more details.

Text Analysis for Beginners

Do you have textual data for qualitative analysis? This hands-on workshop is ideal for anyone seeking to transform unstructured text data into actionable insights. Key topics include: Introduction to text analysis: What is it and why does it matter? , Reading and preprocessing text: Cleaning and preparing data for analysis. , Extracting insights like word frequency and word count. , Tools and techniques: Overview of Python libraries (e.g. NLTK) and other user-friendly platforms , By the end of the workshop, you’ll have a foundational understanding of text mining concepts and practical experience working with basic tools and techniques. Whether you’re a student, researcher, or professional, this workshop will equip you with the skills to start your text analysis journey! Register at: https://libcal.library.sc.edu/event/15681484. Wednesday, April 8, 2026, 2:10 PM – 3:10 PM. See event description for more details.

SG Student Senate Weekly Session

Wednesday, April 8, 2026, 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM. Russell House Theater.

The Antelope Party

, April 3-12, 2026 The Antelope Party  by Eric John Meyer, Directed by Jesse Jou Drayton Hall Theatre, , All is equal and good in the land of Equestria, the colorful kingdom in the classic children’s cartoon My Little Pony. But in an apartment in rural Pennsylvania, where Ben hosts a weekly gathering of “bronies” (cosplaying fans of My Little Pony), things are becoming decidedly less harmonious. An overzealous Neighborhood Watch has begun patrolling the streets, and as its political influence surges, fear and paranoia begin to creep into the bronies’ (and pegasisters’) circle of friendship. “Meyer’s story about a group of lonely outcasts reminds us that acceptance and community can indeed be magical – but sometimes magic can be dark.” – Time Out New York, Contains language and themes that may not be appropriate for young audiences. Get Tickets. Admission Cost: $15 - $22. Wednesday, April 8, 2026, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM. Drayton Hall 141.

PDFs without Barriers

Thursday, April 9, 2026, 11:40 AM - 12:10 PM, PDFs are one of the most common file types shared across courses and websites, but they can also be one of the least accessible if not properly designed. This micro-workshop explores how to create and remediate accessible PDFs, whether you’re exporting from Word, PowerPoint, or scanning existing materials. Learn how to check PDFs for accessibility as well as resources to address the most common errors. This is an online only webinar; there is no in-person attendance option.  To attend the webinar, register here. Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Thursday, April 9, 2026, 11:40 AM – 12:10 PM. See event description for more details.

PDFs without Barriers

Thursday, April 9, 2026, 11:40 AM - 12:10 PM, PDFs are one of the most common file types shared across courses and websites, but they can also be one of the least accessible if not properly designed. This micro-workshop explores how to create and remediate accessible PDFs, whether you’re exporting from Word, PowerPoint, or scanning existing materials. Learn how to check PDFs for accessibility as well as resources to address the most common errors. This is an online only webinar; there is no in-person attendance option.  To attend the webinar, register here. Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Thursday, April 9, 2026, 11:40 AM – 12:10 PM. See event description for more details.

The Good, the Bad & the Naked of USC History: Historic Horseshoe History Tour

Have you ever been strolling along the Historic Horseshoe bricks and found yourself wondering about the history of Carolina and its traditions? Well, you're in luck! Meet University Archivist Elizabeth West in front of the Caroliniana for a Horseshoe history tour. Learn the origins of the Tiger Burn and what national record Gamecock students set in 1974! Free and open to the public. Admission Cost: Free. Thursday, April 9, 2026, 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM. South Caroliniana Library 910 Sumter Street.

Explorance Blue Faculty Training

Thursday, April 9, 2026, 2:00 PM - 2:45 PM, In preparation for upcoming course surveys, this session will introduce Explorance Blue, our new course survey tool. We’ll walk through the entire process—from selecting your two personalized questions to encouraging student participation. We’ll also review the instructor report, including what it looks like and when you can expect to receive it after the survey period concludes. This is an online only webinar; there is no in-person attendance option.  To attend the webinar, register here. Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Thursday, April 9, 2026, 2:00 PM – 2:45 PM. See event description for more details.

Extracting Data from Websites Using APIs

Unlock the power of APIs to efficiently extract and utilize data from websites! This hands-on workshop is designed for beginners and intermediate learners who want to gain practical skills in API integration. Participants will learn the fundamentals of APIs, how to access and interpret API documentation, and techniques for extracting structured data for analysis. We will cover the following topics: What is an API and its role in data extraction? , How to make requests and handle responses? , What are API keys? , How to parse the JSON and other data formats? , Example of extracting data from the New York Times and the Library of Congress websites , By the end of this workshop, you’ll have a basic understanding of APIs for tasks like gathering data for research and analysis. Register at: https://libcal.library.sc.edu/event/15681476. Thursday, April 9, 2026, 2:10 PM – 3:10 PM. See event description for more details.

Active Learning for Large Classrooms

Thursday, April 9, 2026, 2:50 PM - 4:05 PM, You've got your mind set on active learning strategies, but how do you bring them to scale without overwhelming yourself or your students? Maybe you're wanting to do 'something' active in your big class, or to adapt a technique you're using with a smaller class, but need support with the logistics. Join us for an overview of effective, evidence-based active learning strategies that are manageable in larger classes - whether for you that means 30 or 300. This is an online only webinar; there is no in-person attendance option.  To attend the webinar, register here. Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Thursday, April 9, 2026, 2:50 PM – 4:05 PM. See event description for more details.

The Antelope Party

, April 3-12, 2026 The Antelope Party  by Eric John Meyer, Directed by Jesse Jou Drayton Hall Theatre, , All is equal and good in the land of Equestria, the colorful kingdom in the classic children’s cartoon My Little Pony. But in an apartment in rural Pennsylvania, where Ben hosts a weekly gathering of “bronies” (cosplaying fans of My Little Pony), things are becoming decidedly less harmonious. An overzealous Neighborhood Watch has begun patrolling the streets, and as its political influence surges, fear and paranoia begin to creep into the bronies’ (and pegasisters’) circle of friendship. “Meyer’s story about a group of lonely outcasts reminds us that acceptance and community can indeed be magical – but sometimes magic can be dark.” – Time Out New York, Contains language and themes that may not be appropriate for young audiences. Get Tickets. Admission Cost: $15 - $22. Thursday, April 9, 2026, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM. Drayton Hall 141.

Vista Art Night: Sarah Scruggs

About This Show As a member of the Vista Guild, the Koger Center for the Arts partnered with The Jasper Project to open a new rotating art space, titled The Nook, in celebration of Third Thursday Art Night. April 2026’s featured artist in The Nook is Sarah Scruggs. ARTIST BIOGRAPHY Sarah Scruggs is a South Carolinian painter focusing in oil & watercolor. Her alla prima style is relaxed, playful with attention to color. Most always, her paintings are a celebration of storms, the ever changing clouds, flora & fauna. Many of her materials are hand ground pigments collected from local areas in the pursuit of play. Admission Cost: Free Admission. Friday, April 10, 2026, 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM. Koger Center Upstairs Gallery.

The Antelope Party

, April 3-12, 2026 The Antelope Party  by Eric John Meyer, Directed by Jesse Jou Drayton Hall Theatre, , All is equal and good in the land of Equestria, the colorful kingdom in the classic children’s cartoon My Little Pony. But in an apartment in rural Pennsylvania, where Ben hosts a weekly gathering of “bronies” (cosplaying fans of My Little Pony), things are becoming decidedly less harmonious. An overzealous Neighborhood Watch has begun patrolling the streets, and as its political influence surges, fear and paranoia begin to creep into the bronies’ (and pegasisters’) circle of friendship. “Meyer’s story about a group of lonely outcasts reminds us that acceptance and community can indeed be magical – but sometimes magic can be dark.” – Time Out New York, Contains language and themes that may not be appropriate for young audiences. Get Tickets. Admission Cost: $15 - $22. Friday, April 10, 2026, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM. Drayton Hall 141.

The Antelope Party

, April 3-12, 2026 The Antelope Party  by Eric John Meyer, Directed by Jesse Jou Drayton Hall Theatre, , All is equal and good in the land of Equestria, the colorful kingdom in the classic children’s cartoon My Little Pony. But in an apartment in rural Pennsylvania, where Ben hosts a weekly gathering of “bronies” (cosplaying fans of My Little Pony), things are becoming decidedly less harmonious. An overzealous Neighborhood Watch has begun patrolling the streets, and as its political influence surges, fear and paranoia begin to creep into the bronies’ (and pegasisters’) circle of friendship. “Meyer’s story about a group of lonely outcasts reminds us that acceptance and community can indeed be magical – but sometimes magic can be dark.” – Time Out New York, Contains language and themes that may not be appropriate for young audiences. Get Tickets. Admission Cost: $15 - $22. Saturday, April 11, 2026, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM. Drayton Hall 141.

Limón Dance Company in performance with Betsy Blackmon Dance Company

, April 11, 2026, Limón Dance Company in performance with, Betsy Blackmon Dance Company Koger Center for the Arts, 6:30pm, Celebrating its 80th Anniversary season, the Limón Dance Company has been at the vanguard of dance since its inception, and is world-renowned for its dramatic expression, technical mastery and expansive movement. Company Artists will be in-residence at USC setting a classic Limón work on the Betsy Blackmon Dance Company, who will perform on an unforgettable, one-night-only program alongside Limón Dance Company and artists from The Joffrey Ballet. A gala fundraiser will accompany the performance. Get Tickets. Admission Cost: $15 - $22. Saturday, April 11, 2026, 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM. See event description for more details.

The Antelope Party

, April 3-12, 2026 The Antelope Party  by Eric John Meyer, Directed by Jesse Jou Drayton Hall Theatre, , All is equal and good in the land of Equestria, the colorful kingdom in the classic children’s cartoon My Little Pony. But in an apartment in rural Pennsylvania, where Ben hosts a weekly gathering of “bronies” (cosplaying fans of My Little Pony), things are becoming decidedly less harmonious. An overzealous Neighborhood Watch has begun patrolling the streets, and as its political influence surges, fear and paranoia begin to creep into the bronies’ (and pegasisters’) circle of friendship. “Meyer’s story about a group of lonely outcasts reminds us that acceptance and community can indeed be magical – but sometimes magic can be dark.” – Time Out New York, Contains language and themes that may not be appropriate for young audiences. Get Tickets. Admission Cost: $15 - $22. Saturday, April 11, 2026, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM. Drayton Hall 141.

The Lanny and Sidney Palmer One-Act Opera Series

Opera at USC presents two one-act operas: Markheim by Carlisle Floyd, and Lo Scoiattolo in Gamba by Nino Rota. Admission Cost: FREE. Saturday, April 11, 2026, 7:30 PM – 10:00 PM. School of Music 206 Recital Hall.

The Antelope Party

, April 3-12, 2026 The Antelope Party  by Eric John Meyer, Directed by Jesse Jou Drayton Hall Theatre, , All is equal and good in the land of Equestria, the colorful kingdom in the classic children’s cartoon My Little Pony. But in an apartment in rural Pennsylvania, where Ben hosts a weekly gathering of “bronies” (cosplaying fans of My Little Pony), things are becoming decidedly less harmonious. An overzealous Neighborhood Watch has begun patrolling the streets, and as its political influence surges, fear and paranoia begin to creep into the bronies’ (and pegasisters’) circle of friendship. “Meyer’s story about a group of lonely outcasts reminds us that acceptance and community can indeed be magical – but sometimes magic can be dark.” – Time Out New York, Contains language and themes that may not be appropriate for young audiences. Get Tickets. Admission Cost: $15 - $22. Sunday, April 12, 2026, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM. Drayton Hall 141.

Symphonic Winds: Storybook Beginning

Jay Jacobs, conductor, Brenna Curtis, guest conductor, Sousa, Easter Monday on the White House Lawn, Bergman, Dream Machine, Svanoe, The Author’s Suite, Brenna Curtis, conductor, Schwantner, Recoil, Gershwin/Brubaker, An American in Paris. Admission Cost: FREE. Sunday, April 12, 2026, 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM. Koger Center for the Arts, See Description for Event Location.

Stargazing at the Melton Observatory

This historic observatory adjacent to the Horseshoe of the USC Columbia campus (1429 Greene Street) is currently open to the public on clear Monday nights from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm EST (9:00 pm to 11:00 pm during EDT), weather permitting. Anyone is welcome to come by and observe through the 16-inch Cassegrain telescope in the dome and other small telescopes on the observatory deck. See the Moon, planets, stars, clusters, and more through our telescopes free of charge! To find out if the observatory is going to be open on a particular Monday night, please see its Facebook page or call 803-777-8105 or 803-777-8104. Admission Cost: Free. Monday, April 13, 2026, 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM. Melton Observatory 201.

Entering Mentoring: Articulating Your Mentoring Philosophy and Plan

Tuesday, April 14, 2026, 2:50 PM - 4:05 PM, Reflecting upon your mentoring relationships is a vital part of becoming a more effective mentor. This is especially important immediately following a mentor-mentee training sequence like Entering Mentoring as it allows you to consider how to implement changes in your mentoring practice based on the training you have received. The ability and practice of reflecting on your mentoring at regular intervals is strongly encouraged. This is a required session for the Entering Mentoring certificate of completion. Center for Teaching Excellence, Thomas Cooper Library, Level 5, Room L511, This is an in-person event that requires physical attendance; register here to attend. Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Tuesday, April 14, 2026, 2:50 PM – 4:05 PM. Thomas Cooper Library L511.

Chorales Community Collaboration Concert

The USC Chorales are joined by the Sandlapper Singers and Limited Time Only Chamber Choir to present the South Carolina premiere of “We Are Phoenix.”  This new work by composer Timothy Takach calls humankind to draw hope and renewal from the beauty of the earth itself.  Conceived as a collaborative effort for a wide range of singers, Takach’s beautiful and evocative music is accompanied by string orchestra.  The performance will also feature pieces sung by the individual choirs.  This is a ticketed event. General Admission: $15, Students: free, Eastminster Presbyterian Church, 3200 Trenholm Road, Columbia, SC 29204. Admission Cost: General Admission: $15 Students: Free. Tuesday, April 14, 2026, 7:30 PM – 8:30 PM. See Description for Event Location.

Virtual Environments Community of Practice (VECoP)

Wednesday, April 15, 2026, 12:00 PM - 12:50 PM, The virtual environments community of practice is planning ways to integrate virtual reality, augmented reality and mixed reality into teaching and learning environments at USC. Meetings are open to faculty, staff and students. This is an online only meeting; there is no in-person attendance option.  To attend the meeting, register here. Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Wednesday, April 15, 2026, 12:00 PM – 12:50 PM. See event description for more details.

GenAI CoP: Ethical Use of Generative AI

Wednesday, April 15, 2026, 2:30 PM - 4:00 PM, The Generative Artificial Intelligence Community of Practice (GenAI CoP) at the University of South Carolina is a collaborative initiative designed to explore and discuss the implications of GenAI in higher education. This community brings together faculty, staff, and graduate students to share insights, strategies, and experiences related to the integration of GenAI across administration, research, teaching, and learning. Thomas Cooper Library, Room 118, 1322 Greene Street, Columbia, SC 29208, This is an in-person meeting that requires physical attendance; register here to attend. Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Wednesday, April 15, 2026, 2:30 PM – 4:00 PM. See event description for more details.

SG Student Senate Weekly Session

Wednesday, April 15, 2026, 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM. Russell House Theater.

Improving Research Learning Outcomes with the Library

Thursday, April 16, 2026, 10:05 AM - 11:20 AM, Learn to question your assumptions about what students know and explicitly identify the knowledge and skills you want them to acquire when completing library research assignments. [In this session, participants will explore common challenges students face when conducting library research and identify best practices for designing assignments that require or encourage the use of library resources. Participants will also have the opportunity to learn about ways in which faculty can partner with librarians to support student success. By creating research assignments with specific learning outcomes that are clear to your students, you can improve the experience for everyone involved. This is a required session for a certificate of completion in Teaching with the Library. Center for Teaching Excellence, Thomas Cooper Library, Level 5, Room L511, This is an in-person event that requires physical attendance; there is no virtual attendance option. Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Thursday, April 16, 2026, 10:05 AM – 11:20 AM. Thomas Cooper Library L511.

Recovery Ally

Thursday, April 16, 2026, 1:15 PM - 2:30 PM, Through Recovery Ally workshops, Gamecock Recovery strives to empower students, faculty and staff to make campus more supportive of students in recovery from substance use disorder. Learn to: confront myths and stigma about substance use disorder; use and model acts of allyship in everyday interactions; and identify, access, and direct people to recovery resources at USC. The Recovery Ally workshop is presented in a flipped-classroom model that includes a self-paced video module as prework (estimated 20 minutes) and an in-person session. Please review the recorded content prior to your workshop session. This is a required session for a certificate of completion in Mental Health and Well-being Competency. Center for Teaching Excellence, Thomas Cooper Library, Level 5, Room L511, This is an in-person event that requires physical attendance; register here to attend. Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Thursday, April 16, 2026, 1:15 PM – 2:30 PM. Thomas Cooper Library L511.

Developing a Course Syllabus

Friday, April 17, 2026, 1:00 PM - 2:15 PM, In this workshop, you will begin to develop (or revise) a syllabus for a course you teach now or in the future, through exploration of the Backward Design framework (Wiggins & McTighe 1998) and the associated concept of course alignment (Fink 2013). We’ll discuss the importance and role of learning outcomes and explore how to craft them using Bloom’s revised taxonomy (Anderson & Krathwohl 2001). Attendees will then learn how the development of thoughtfully designed learning outcomes guides instructors in formulating the appropriate assessment, creating a quality learning activity or assignment, and finally, determining the most effective method for teaching that activity. Other tips and resources for syllabus development will be discussed, including template resources from the CTE, inclusion of required and optional sections (as per USC policies), and other recommendations. This is an online only webinar; there is no in-person attendance option.  To attend… Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Friday, April 17, 2026, 1:00 PM – 2:15 PM. See event description for more details.

Arboretum Open House

W. Gordon Belser Arboretum Monthly Open House, Take a nature break and bring a friend to USC's wildlife preserve in the heart of Columbia. Open House is the 3rd Sunday of every month, with ecology-themed presentations from faculty and regional experts twice each semester. 4080 Bloomwood Rd. Columbia, SC 29205, Weekly Hours: Wednesdays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. - 12, Thursdays 4 - 6 p.m. (winter hours 3-5 p.m.), Volunteers welcome! Contact us at arboretum@sc.edu to let us know you're coming. Find all our Open House speakers and Book Club dates here. ---, Visit the botanic garden horseshoe, pollinator display gardens, and walk through 10 biomes of South Carolina along a 1/3 mile trail. Special stops are at the longleaf pines atop a bluff of fossilized sand dunes, the boardwalk overlooking a bald cypress swamp, a grove of Atlantic white cypress in the central wetland, and the allee of ancient tulip trees in the ravine. Pause at the waterfall or other scenic stops and take in the gifts of nature, here… Admission Cost: Free. Sunday, April 19, 2026, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM.

Ears Wide Open: Pre-Earth Day Bash

Looking for a pre-Earth Day celebration? The W. Gordan Belser Arboretum will be blooming with the sounds of Commercial Music Ensembles on April 19th from 1-4 p.m. Join Ears Wide Open and musicians from USC’s fastest growing academic program – Music Industry Studies – for an afternoon filled with music and surrounded by nature. The arboretum is located at 4080 Bloomwood Rd, Columbia, SC 29205. Admission Cost: Free. Sunday, April 19, 2026, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM. See Description for Event Location.

Freeman Sundays @3 Concert Series

The USC School of Music’s renowned music faculty performs fresh and vibrant chamber music programs that pair canonic masterpieces alongside brand new works. The April program includes Professor of Composition Man Fang’s Lullaby performed by Claire Bryant, cello; Rachel Calloway, mezzo-soprano; and Nicholas Susi on piano. Next, Dominic Armstrong, tenor, and Omar Roy, piano, combine talents to perform selected songs by Hugo Wolf. Ari Streisfeld, violin; Dan Sweaney, viola; Claire Bryant, cello; and Nick Susi, piano, conclude the afternoon’s concert with Piano Quartet in E? major, Op. 47 by Robert Schumann. Come support the USC School of Music’s scholarship program by attending this concert featuring incredible talent! Tickets are available at the Koger Center for the Arts Box Office (803-251-2222) and at the door. Admission Cost: $15 adults; $10 seniors, USC faculty and staff; $5 students. Free for USC School of Music students, faculty and staff. Sunday, April 19, 2026, 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM. School of Music 206 Recital Hall.

Stargazing at the Melton Observatory

This historic observatory adjacent to the Horseshoe of the USC Columbia campus (1429 Greene Street) is currently open to the public on clear Monday nights from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm EST (9:00 pm to 11:00 pm during EDT), weather permitting. Anyone is welcome to come by and observe through the 16-inch Cassegrain telescope in the dome and other small telescopes on the observatory deck. See the Moon, planets, stars, clusters, and more through our telescopes free of charge! To find out if the observatory is going to be open on a particular Monday night, please see its Facebook page or call 803-777-8105 or 803-777-8104. Admission Cost: Free. Monday, April 20, 2026, 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM. Melton Observatory 201.

Rethinking Your Teaching Philosophy in the Age of GenAI

Tuesday, April 21, 2026, 11:40 AM - 12:55 PM, A teaching philosophy statement provides a concise description of an instructor's perspective on teaching, student learning, methodologies, and implementation, and institutions typically request a teaching philosophy statement from applicants for faculty positions and as part of the tenure and promotion process. What, then, is your teaching philosophy? What aspects should you reflect upon, write, or include? And importantly, how has the writing of this document changed as a result of ChatGPT, both in your perspective on this fundamental shift in higher education as well as document construction assistance? This will be a working webinar, where we will discuss strategies for composing the statement, incorporating time for personalized theme development, and tips for using ChatGPT prompts in writing it. Participants will leave with a thematic outline and components of their statement, and guidelines to continue crafting it. NOTE: For you and other… Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Tuesday, April 21, 2026, 11:40 AM – 12:55 PM. See event description for more details.

From Yawn to Yes!: Increasing Student Engagement through Active Learning Technologies

Tuesday, April 21, 2026, 2:50 PM - 4:05 PM, Active learning can energize your classroom and provide AI-proof ways to assess students' progress. Unfortunately, many students groan at the thought of group work or discussions. Come learn how adding various tools and media to your classroom can get your students excited about the coursework. This webinar tackles the question of how educators can use student-facing technologies such as virtual whiteboards, collaborative documents, VR, games, podcasts, polling, and more to increase student interest both in the in-person and online classroom. In addition, we will talk about overcoming common obstacles both in planning and implementation. This is an online only webinar; there is no in-person attendance option.  To attend the webinar, register here. Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Tuesday, April 21, 2026, 2:50 PM – 4:05 PM. See event description for more details.

USC Symphony Orchestra and Choirs of Carolina: War and Peace

Dr. Alicia W. Walker leads the USC Symphony Orchestra, Concert Choir and University Orchestra in a performance uniting war and peace. Accompanied by soloists Tina Milhorn Stallard, soprano; Serena Hill-LaRoche, soprano; Rachel Calloway, mezzo-soprano; Dominic Armstrong, tenor and baritone; and Jacob Will, bass, the musicians will perform Haydn’s Missa in tempore belli and Vaughan Williams’ Dona nobis pacem in a powerful close of the ensembles’ seasons.  Join USC Symphony conductor and music director Dr. Scott Weiss for a pre-concert talk at 6:45 p.m. in the Koger Center Grand Tier. Tickets are available in-person at Koger Center Box Office (803-251-2222, Monday–Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.) or online at KogerCenterForTheArts.com. Admission Cost: General public - $30 Seniors/military / USC faculty and staff - $25 Children under 18 and non-USC students with ID - $8 USC Students - free with student ID. Tuesday, April 21, 2026, 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM. Koger Center for the Arts, See Description for Event Location.

Donuts with the Dean of Students

Donuts with the Dean of Students are an informal way to connect with the Office of the Dean of Students.  Stop by our table in the Russell House University Union for a chat and snack with the DoS staff or just grab a free donut.  We want to hear your voice as your Gamecock experience is important to us. Wednesday, April 22, 2026, 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM. RHUU Russell House 2nd Floor Lobby Space 01, RHUU Russell House 2nd Floor Lobby Space 02.

Paul Quigley - The Man Behind the Cane

Professor Paul Quigley, the James I. Robertson, Jr. Associate Professor of Civil War Studies at Virginia Tech, will be visiting us to talk about his new book; The Man Behind the Cane Preston Brooks, Political Violence, and the Road to the Civil War (Oxford University Press, 2026). Admission Cost: 0.00. Wednesday, April 22, 2026, 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM. Gambrell Hall 428, Gambrell Hall 429.

Universal Design for Learning (UDL) CoP

Wednesday, April 22, 2026, 2:20 PM - 3:10 PM, The Universal Design for Learning (UDL) community of practice provides an intentional space for discussion regarding accessibility in teaching and learning at the university. Faculty, staff, and students are invited to join. Center for Teaching Excellence, Thomas Cooper Library, Level 5, Room L511, This is an in-person event that requires physical attendance; register here to attend. Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Wednesday, April 22, 2026, 2:20 PM – 3:10 PM. Thomas Cooper Library L511.

SG Student Senate Weekly Session

Wednesday, April 22, 2026, 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM. Russell House Theater.

2026 Buchheit Family Lecture: "Alex Murdaugh and the Fall of The Murdaugh Dynasty: A Distinctly South Carolina Story"

, Please join the College of Information and Communications for the Buchheit Family Lecture on Wednesday, April 22 at 6:30 p.m. Valerie Bauerlein, National Affairs Reporter at The Wall Street Journal, will deliver this year’s lecture, “Alex Murdaugh and the Fall of The Murdaugh Dynasty: A Distinctly South Carolina Story.” It will be held in the Campus Room at Capstone (902 Barnwell St. Columbia, SC 29208). Bauerlein is the author of the instant New York Times bestseller The Devil at His Elbow: Alex Murdaugh and the Fall of a Southern Dynasty and host of the Spotify/The Journal podcast series Camp Swamp Road. Please note that while this event is free, tickets are required to attend and seating is limited. We recommend arriving early. Registration link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2026-buchheit-family-lecture-featuring-valerie-bauerlein-tickets-1983480813507. Admission Cost: FREE. Wednesday, April 22, 2026, 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM. Capstone 101 - Campus Room.

Teaching with Data from University Libraries

Thursday, April 23, 2026, 10:05 AM - 11:20 AM, Are you interested in teaching using data but unsure where to start? University Libraries has resources and people who can help you teach your students to understand and work with data. In this session, learn about the Libraries' data collections and librarians who can provide data learning opportunities in a a variety of modalities. This is an elective session for a certificate of completion in Teaching with the Library. Center for Teaching Excellence, Thomas Cooper Library, Level 5, Room L511, This is an in-person event that requires physical attendance; register here to attend. Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Thursday, April 23, 2026, 10:05 AM – 11:20 AM. Thomas Cooper Library L511.

Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR) Gatekeeper Training

Thursday, April 23, 2026, 11:40 AM - 12:55 PM, This Compassionate Carolina workshop teaches participants how to recognize warning signs of suicide and respond with care, confidence, and connection. The QPR model equips faculty and staff to support students in distress and foster a culture of compassion and safety throughout the Carolina community. This is a required session for a certificate of completion in Mental Health and Well-being Competency. Center for Teaching Excellence, Thomas Cooper Library, Level 5, Room L511, This is an in-person event that requires physical attendance; register here to attend. Admission Cost: Free, Register to Attend. Thursday, April 23, 2026, 11:40 AM – 12:55 PM. Thomas Cooper Library L511.

Discover USC 2026

Discover USC is the premier annual showcase of research, scholarship, leadership and creative projects by undergraduate and graduate students, postdoctoral scholars and medical scholars representing the entire USC System, from the Upstate to the Lowcountry. This annual event is proudly sponsored by the Office of the Vice President for Research. Visit the Discover USC website for complete details, registration, information on shuttles and parking, and much more: https://sc.edu/about/signature_events/discover_uofsc/index.php. This event is free and open to the public; no registration required to drop in. It will be located at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center. Friday, April 24, 2026, 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM. See event description for more details.

Chamber Music Night with USC Chamber Music Ensembles

Student chamber music ensembles of diverse instrumentation (typically including string quartets, piano trios, wind quintets and mixed instrument groups) perform chamber music from Baroque to contemporary. Admission Cost: FREE. Friday, April 24, 2026, 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM. School of Music 206 Recital Hall.

Student Choreography Showcase

, April 25-26, 2026, Student Choreography Showcase, Drayton Hall Theatre, 2pm daily, We’ll end the season with a second showcase of original works that have been developed over the spring semester by our gifted student choreographers. The future of dance starts here! Get Tickets. Admission Cost: $15- $22. Saturday, April 25, 2026, 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM. Drayton Hall 141.

Student Choreography Showcase

, April 25-26, 2026, Student Choreography Showcase, Drayton Hall Theatre, 2pm daily, We’ll end the season with a second showcase of original works that have been developed over the spring semester by our gifted student choreographers. The future of dance starts here! Get Tickets. Admission Cost: $15- $22. Sunday, April 26, 2026, 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM. Drayton Hall 141.

USC Wind Ensemble and Alumni Concert Band: Windows and Mirrors

Cormac Cannon, conductor, David Warren, guest conductor, Scott Herring, percussion, The Wind Ensemble concludes their season in a shared concert with the USC Alumni Concert Band. The Wind Ensemble portion includes two new works commissioned in part by the USC Wind Ensemble. Professor of Percussion Dr. Scott Herring will be featured on Joseph Schwantner’s thrilling new concerto for percussion and wind ensemble, Fast Track. Also included is Brian Balmage’s epic new symphony for band, Windows and Mirrors. USC Bands Alumni will gather to rehearse, reminisce, and perform the second half of the program. Program: Kabalevsky/Hunsberger, Overture to “Colas Breugnon” Schwantner, Fast Track (Consortium Premiere), Balmages, Windows and Mirrors: Symphony for Band (Consortium Premiere), Alumni Concert Band program TBD. Admission Cost: FREE. Sunday, April 26, 2026, 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM. Koger Center Auditorium, See Description for Event Location.

Stargazing at the Melton Observatory

This historic observatory adjacent to the Horseshoe of the USC Columbia campus (1429 Greene Street) is currently open to the public on clear Monday nights from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm EST (9:00 pm to 11:00 pm during EDT), weather permitting. Anyone is welcome to come by and observe through the 16-inch Cassegrain telescope in the dome and other small telescopes on the observatory deck. See the Moon, planets, stars, clusters, and more through our telescopes free of charge! To find out if the observatory is going to be open on a particular Monday night, please see its Facebook page or call 803-777-8105 or 803-777-8104. Admission Cost: Free. Monday, April 27, 2026, 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM. Melton Observatory 201.

Stargazing at the Melton Observatory

This historic observatory adjacent to the Horseshoe of the USC Columbia campus (1429 Greene Street) is currently open to the public on clear Monday nights from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm EST (9:00 pm to 11:00 pm during EDT), weather permitting. Anyone is welcome to come by and observe through the 16-inch Cassegrain telescope in the dome and other small telescopes on the observatory deck. See the Moon, planets, stars, clusters, and more through our telescopes free of charge! To find out if the observatory is going to be open on a particular Monday night, please see its Facebook page or call 803-777-8105 or 803-777-8104. Admission Cost: Free. Monday, May 4, 2026, 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM. Melton Observatory 201.

Stargazing at the Melton Observatory

This historic observatory adjacent to the Horseshoe of the USC Columbia campus (1429 Greene Street) is currently open to the public on clear Monday nights from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm EST (9:00 pm to 11:00 pm during EDT), weather permitting. Anyone is welcome to come by and observe through the 16-inch Cassegrain telescope in the dome and other small telescopes on the observatory deck. See the Moon, planets, stars, clusters, and more through our telescopes free of charge! To find out if the observatory is going to be open on a particular Monday night, please see its Facebook page or call 803-777-8105 or 803-777-8104. Admission Cost: Free. Monday, May 11, 2026, 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM. Melton Observatory 201.

The Good, the Bad & the Naked of USC History: Historic Horseshoe History Tour

Have you ever been strolling along the Historic Horseshoe bricks and found yourself wondering about the history of Carolina and its traditions? Well, you're in luck! Meet University Archivist Elizabeth West in front of the Caroliniana for a Horseshoe history tour. Learn the origins of the Tiger Burn and what national record Gamecock students set in 1974! Free and open to the public. Admission Cost: Free. Thursday, May 14, 2026, 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM. South Caroliniana Library 910 Sumter Street.

Arboretum Open House

W. Gordon Belser Arboretum Monthly Open House, Take a nature break and bring a friend to USC's wildlife preserve in the heart of Columbia. Open House is the 3rd Sunday of every month, with ecology-themed presentations from faculty and regional experts twice each semester. 4080 Bloomwood Rd. Columbia, SC 29205, Weekly Hours: Wednesdays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. - 12, Thursdays 4 - 6 p.m. (winter hours 3-5 p.m.), Volunteers welcome! Contact us at arboretum@sc.edu to let us know you're coming. Find all our Open House speakers and Book Club dates here. ---, Visit the botanic garden horseshoe, pollinator display gardens, and walk through 10 biomes of South Carolina along a 1/3 mile trail. Special stops are at the longleaf pines atop a bluff of fossilized sand dunes, the boardwalk overlooking a bald cypress swamp, a grove of Atlantic white cypress in the central wetland, and the allee of ancient tulip trees in the ravine. Pause at the waterfall or other scenic stops and take in the gifts of nature, here… Admission Cost: Free. Sunday, May 17, 2026, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM.

Stargazing at the Melton Observatory

This historic observatory adjacent to the Horseshoe of the USC Columbia campus (1429 Greene Street) is currently open to the public on clear Monday nights from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm EST (9:00 pm to 11:00 pm during EDT), weather permitting. Anyone is welcome to come by and observe through the 16-inch Cassegrain telescope in the dome and other small telescopes on the observatory deck. See the Moon, planets, stars, clusters, and more through our telescopes free of charge! To find out if the observatory is going to be open on a particular Monday night, please see its Facebook page or call 803-777-8105 or 803-777-8104. Admission Cost: Free. Monday, May 18, 2026, 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM. Melton Observatory 201.

Stargazing at the Melton Observatory

This historic observatory adjacent to the Horseshoe of the USC Columbia campus (1429 Greene Street) is currently open to the public on clear Monday nights from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm EST (9:00 pm to 11:00 pm during EDT), weather permitting. Anyone is welcome to come by and observe through the 16-inch Cassegrain telescope in the dome and other small telescopes on the observatory deck. See the Moon, planets, stars, clusters, and more through our telescopes free of charge! To find out if the observatory is going to be open on a particular Monday night, please see its Facebook page or call 803-777-8105 or 803-777-8104. Admission Cost: Free. Monday, June 1, 2026, 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM. Melton Observatory 201.

Stargazing at the Melton Observatory

This historic observatory adjacent to the Horseshoe of the USC Columbia campus (1429 Greene Street) is currently open to the public on clear Monday nights from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm EST (9:00 pm to 11:00 pm during EDT), weather permitting. Anyone is welcome to come by and observe through the 16-inch Cassegrain telescope in the dome and other small telescopes on the observatory deck. See the Moon, planets, stars, clusters, and more through our telescopes free of charge! To find out if the observatory is going to be open on a particular Monday night, please see its Facebook page or call 803-777-8105 or 803-777-8104. Admission Cost: Free. Monday, June 8, 2026, 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM. Melton Observatory 201.