2025: Year in review
December 10, 2025, Dan Cook
Heading into 2025, the field of higher education faced significant challenges. But at the University of South Carolina, all signs point to dynamic growth and institutional strength.
Recent Stories
Marshall Scholarship finalist Michael Pitre studies the circuitry of the brain -- and plans a future in neurosurgery
December 08, 2025, Page Ivey
South Carolina Honors College student Michael Pitre likes to get up around 3 a.m. on Tuesday and Thursday mornings to make the two-hour drive to Folly Beach to surf at the Washout before heading back to Columbia and his 11:40 a.m. class. It’s a regimen that aligns nicely with the Marshall Scholar finalist’s jam-packed schedule that includes earning his BARSC-MD degree in just three years, working as an emergency medical technician, and researching the circuitry of the brain on his way to becoming a neurosurgeon.
Pair of Honors students named finalists for prestigious fellowships
November 12, 2025, Collyn Taylor
USC has a Rhodes and Marshall finalist in the same cycle for the first time since 2011 with the potential to have a Rhodes recipient for the first time since 2016 and Marshall recipient for the first time since 2009.
Senior public health major named Rhodes Scholarship finalist
November 03, 2025, Valerie Weingart
A Rhodes scholar embodies academic excellence, strong collaboration and leadership skills, and dedication to working for the good of humanity — all of which describe South Carolina Honors College student and public health major Hannah Brennen. Her research and involvement in the Columbia community throughout her academic career have her poised to become USC's 11th Rhodes scholar and first since 2016.
USC Brain Health opens clinic in Orangeburg
October 20, 2025, Laura Morris
The University of South Carolina opened its seventh Brain Health clinic during a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Oct. 20 in Orangeburg, South Carolina. In partnership with HopeHealth, the clinic will bridge critical gaps in early diagnosis, education and family support.
Coffee bean extract for COVID?
September 24, 2025, Chris Horn
When Wenbin Tan pivoted his research a few years ago to better understand the effects of COVID-19 on the cardiovascular system, his efforts led to a hunt for natural compounds that could counteract the virus’ effects. Two natural compounds that show promise were known to be abundant in unroasted green coffee beans.
Brain Health Fitness program uses exercise to fight cognitive decline
July 30, 2025, Nicole Carrico
Integrating physical movement into a patient’s daily routine is an essential strategy to combat chronic illness and ensure a healthier future for South Carolinians. A new collaborative research study from USC Brain Health and the Arnold School of Public Health goes one step further by examining how consistent, physical exercise can also help combat cognitive decline and improve overall neurological health.
Interdisciplinary initiative teaches medical students how to use AI productively and safely
July 24, 2025, Chris Horn
The University of South Carolina’s School of Medicine has begun preparing its students to understand AI’s potential — and its shortcomings. The medical school in Columbia partnered last year with the Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing to launch the AI in Medicine Extracurricular Track.
Health Watch: Caring for someone with dementia during a hurricane
June 10, 2025, Nicole Carrico
A natural disaster can be a difficult experience for someone with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. Rob McMahon, chief nurse practitioner for USC Brain Health and assistant clinical professor at the School of Medicine Columbia, details how caregivers can best prepare ahead of a storm in our latest Health Watch.
SC Impact: Building stronger communities
May 28, 2025, Communications and marketing
From creating social mobility by supporting first-generation students to providing resources for community members who need them most, the University of South Carolina is dedicated to strengthening our state and improving the lives of its residents. It’s work that goes beyond the college campus and extends into every corner of South Carolina.
Graduate award winners recognized
May 19, 2025, Thom Harman, with Matt Klopfenstein
The Graduate School recently announced and recognized its 2025 Graduate Student Award winners and Trustee Fellowship recipients, as well as the graduates from the school’s scholarly initiatives. The school held its annual Recognition of Excellence Ceremony on April 25 at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center.
School of Medicine alum treats patients in underserved communities around the world
May 12, 2025, Craig Brandhorst
USC’s impact on health care is improving lives throughout the Palmetto State, but our graduates take their knowledge around the world. For School of Medicine Columbia graduate Katy Close, that has meant treating patients in underserved communities from El Salvador to Haiti to Liberia.
SC Impact: Building better health
May 08, 2025, Communications and Marketing
As a small state with an aging and rapidly growing population, South Carolina faces a shortage of health care professionals — even as it confronts high rates of chronic diseases like heart disease, stroke, diabetes and cancer. The challenges are significant, but the University of South Carolina is working every day to address them head-on.
USC health sciences graduates have major impact in rural areas
May 02, 2025, Rebekah Friedman / photos by Kim Truett
From obstetricians and nurses to social workers and psychiatrists, University of South Carolina graduates are especially needed in rural areas, where more than a quarter of the state’s residents live. And the impact isn’t only felt by the patient; it’s also felt by the communities themselves. Carolinian visited several alumni whose small-town efforts are having a big impact. These proud health care workers showed us the meaning of dedication and their commitment to the people and communities they serve.
SC impact: Pell Grant recipients thrive in a wide range of fields
April 29, 2025, Laura Erskine
For more than 50 years, USC has made an undergraduate education more attainable through TRIO programs. The foundation of these opportunities is the Pell Grant. Here, USC alumni share how the Pell Grant opened the door for them to achieve their dreams of earning their degrees and attaining fulfilling, impactful careers.
New USC clinic tackles mental health provider shortage in rural South Carolina
April 29, 2025, Carol J.G. Ward
The University of South Carolina School of Medicine Columbia is opening a free mental health clinic to serve rural communities in Bamberg, Calhoun, Fairfield, Orangeburg and Chester counties. Launching this summer, the student-operated, faculty-supervised clinic will offer in-person and telehealth services to those with limited access to care.
2025 Autism Acceptance Month: USC faculty experts list
April 04, 2025, Communications and Marketing
April is Autism Acceptance Month. The CDC estimates that one out of every 36 eight-year-olds and one in 45 adults is affected by autism, a lifelong developmental disorder. As South Carolina’s leader in health sciences, USC has researchers across disciplines who specialize in autism.
USC neuroscience experts working to understand, improve brain health
April 01, 2025, Communications and Marketing
The University of South Carolina is focused on the brain. From autism and aphasia to Alzheimer’s and other related dementias, university researchers are working across several academic disciplines to better understand how the brain works and to develop solutions that will improve people’s health.
Medical, pharmacy students celebrate Match Day career milestones
March 21, 2025, Gregory Hardy
More than 250 University of South Carolina health sciences students learned where they’ll take the next step in their careers during national Match Day celebrations on March 19 and 21.
USC's medical schools work to train, retain key players in medicine
March 07, 2025, Laura Erskine
A primary care doctor is a key player in patient care, but South Carolina is facing a doctor shortage. That’s why both USC’s School of Medicine Columbia and School of Medicine Greenville are prioritizing primary care, with an emphasis on family medicine, thanks to their deans, Dr. Gerald Harmon (Columbia) and Dr. Phyllis MacGilvray (Greenville).
USC youth summer camps 2025
March 03, 2025, Téa Smith
With only a few short months until summer, it’s time for parents to find summer activities for their children. USC offers a wide variety of summer camps for all ages and all interests from music to soccer, dance and engineering.
School of Medicine Columbia breaks ground on new facility at USC Health Sciences Campus
February 21, 2025, Gregory Hardy
The University of South Carolina broke ground on a facility that will redefine the future of health care education and research during a ceremony on Tuesday, Feb. 25, at the site of its new School of Medicine Columbia. This cutting-edge, 300,000-square-foot-plus medical education and research facility will be part of USC’s transformative $300 million Health Sciences Campus, amid 16 acres in Columbia’s reimagined BullStreet District.
Health Watch: Flossing for heart health and reducing stroke risk
February 18, 2025, Gregory Hardy
Oral health isn’t just about your smile—it could help protect your heart, too. A new study finds an unexpected heart health habit can be that regular flossing reduces stroke risk. Dr. Souvik Sen explains why you shouldn't skip out on flossing in the name of heart health.
Med students step up to fight childhood cancer
February 12, 2025, Megan Sexton
The Future Leaders in Medicine, a student organization at the USC School of Medicine Columbia, has teamed with Curing Kids Cancer to raise awareness – and funds— for the fight against childhood cancer.
2025 heart health faculty experts list
January 29, 2025, Gregory Hardy
February is American Heart Month. The University of South Carolina is home to many faculty members who are available to offer their expertise in cardio care and research.
Nurse anesthetist Marcia Iszard has the caretaker gene
January 29, 2025, Faith Militello
Marcia Iszard, a certified registered nurse anesthetist for 15 years and current president of the South Carolina Association of Nurse Anesthetists, is passionate about advancing the nurse anesthesia profession. As a clinical assistant professor at the School of Medicine Columbia, she combines her leadership experience and commitment to education to shape the next generation of CRNAs while advocating for improved healthcare access across South Carolina.
USC scientists deploy artificial intelligence, digital twin models to build new resources for medical care
November 20, 2024, Chris Horn
A team of USC scientists is using a $3.4 million grant to develop new technology for personalized medical treatment and more accurate medical diagnoses. USC faculty members from medicine, chemistry and mathematics are leading various aspects of the five-year project funded by the National Science Foundation’s Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCoR).
The Neuroscience of Sleep
November 13, 2024, Carol J.G. Ward
School of Medicine Columbia researcher Ana Pocivavsek’s new four-year NIH grant will allow her to study the impact of sleep across the lifespan during windows that are critical to brain development, including pregnancy.
USC faculty, alumni work to fill health care gap in rural areas
November 11, 2024
More than a quarter of South Carolinians call a rural area home, but these populations have a higher incidence of medical emergencies and are at greater risk of death because of barriers to access to timely medical care. USC researchers and alumni are working to change that, both for the state’s communities and at the national level.
New Faculty Spotlight: Paul Toriello
October 25, 2024, Faith Militello
Paul Toriello, assistant dean of clinical graduate programs, brings 30 years of experience in mental health counseling and academia to the School of Medicine Columbia. As a clinical professor in the Department of Neuropsychiatry and Behavioral Science, he leads initiatives to integrate technology into health care education and expand mental health services, preparing students to become professional caregivers.
Clinical Practice Teaching Award winner: Dr. Sara Lindsey
October 09, 2024, Rebekah Friedman
Dr. Sara Lindsey, a clinical assistant professor of pediatrics, helps School of Medicine students prepare for bedside care by guiding them in the classroom and during their clinical rotations.
USC partners with health systems and patients to address chronic illness care across S.C.
September 30, 2024, Laura Morris
Health science researchers from the University of South Carolina are taking a new approach to address chronic health conditions and reduce patient hardships across the state.
First renderings of USC's Brain Health Center unveiled
September 10, 2024, Collyn Taylor
USC's Board of Trustees approved the first designs of USC's state-of-the-art center, which will serve as the hub for the university's Brain Health Network.
Anna Hoppmann leads pediatric cancer research effort
September 10, 2024, Chris Horn
Anna Hoppmann is a pediatric oncologist with Prisma Health and a clinical assistant professor at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine Columbia where she graduated nine years ago. She also chairs the S.C. Childhood Cancer Taskforce, which recently released a 25-year trend report on childhood cancer incidence, survival and mortality in South Carolina.
USC health science researchers play critical role in first-ever S.C. pediatric cancer report
September 04, 2024, Laura Morris
A new report led by the state Department of Public Health provides a comprehensive look at the burden of childhood cancer in the Palmetto State over the past 25 years. University of South Carolina health science researchers played a critical role in developing the report; additional partners include the South Carolina Children’s Hospital Collaborative and the South Carolina Cancer Alliance.
New approach to treating heart failure
June 12, 2024, Chris Horn
A multidisciplinary research team at the University of South Carolina is developing a novel technique for injecting a next-generation therapeutic drug onto damaged heart tissue, a potential breakthrough treatment for millions diagnosed with heart failure.
USC opens Sumter Brain Health clinic, expands cognitive care
May 14, 2024, Laura Morris
The University of South Carolina opened a Brain Health clinic in Sumter during a ribbon cutting event on Monday (May 13) — expanding cognitive care to patients in rural and underserved areas of South Carolina.
2024 artificial intelligence faculty experts list
April 03, 2024, Gregory Hardy
University of South Carolina researchers explore how artificial intelligence can be used for advancements in health care, education, manufacturing, energy, disaster management and transportation. They are also helping shape and inform the ethics and policies surrounding these emergent solutions.
The neurological underpinnings of social behavior
March 29, 2024, Chris Horn
Scientists at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine Columbia are researching important linkages between brain mitochondrial function and social behavior that could lead to a better understanding of autism spectrum disorder and post-partum depression.
2024 Autism Acceptance Month: USC faculty experts list
March 28, 2024, Gregory Hardy
April is Autism Acceptance Month. The CDC estimates that 1 out of every 36 eight-year-olds is affected by autism, a lifelong developmental disorder. As South Carolina’s leader in health sciences, USC has researchers across disciplines who specialize in autism.
Medical, pharmacy students match for residencies, shape future of health care
March 22, 2024, Laura Morris
More than 200 Gamecocks learned where they’ll work as resident pharmacists and physicians during national Match Day events on March 13 and 15.
School of Medicine researchers pursue new treatment options for glioblastoma
March 05, 2024, Page Ivey
Assistant professor of medicine Deepak Bhere was drawn to the study of stem cell therapy because he wanted to do research that has real impact on patients’ lives. His team at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine Columbia has the potential to do just that as they pursue new treatment options for patients with glioblastoma.
USC youth summer camps 2024
March 01, 2024, Communications and Marketing
With only a few short months until summer, it’s time for parents to find summer activities for their children. USC offers a wide variety of summer camps for all ages and all interests from music to soccer, dance and engineering.
Improving care in the Stroke Belt
February 19, 2024, Communications and Marketing
As the state’s flagship institution, the University of South Carolina is well has many strengths in both research and treatment of stroke and aphasia — a common consequence of stroke characterized by difficulty speaking or understanding others’ speech. The research is critically important in the state with the seventh-highest incidence of stroke mortality in the U.S.
2024 heart health faculty experts list
February 09, 2024, Gregory Hardy
February is American Heart Month. The University of South Carolina is home to many faculty members who are available to offer their expertise in cardio care and research.
New Brain Health Network, Brain Health Center address need for better dementia assessment
February 06, 2024, Chris Horn
When it comes to risk factors for dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, the Palmetto State checks every box, from high incidence of stroke and diabetes to heart disease and obesity.
Carolinian Spotlight: Leonardo Bonilha
January 24, 2024
As clinical director for the new USC Brain Health Network, Leo Bonilha brings a wealth of research expertise related to language recovery for aphasia patients and outcomes of epilepsy treatment.
FoodShare SC increases online access, reduces food insecurity
January 11, 2024, Laura Morris
FoodShare South Carolina received approval from the USDA Food and Nutrition Service to accept SNAP online for purchases of fruits and vegetables sold through its Fresh Food Box program. FoodShare SC is one of only a few community-based organizations in the nation selected to participate in the online purchasing program.
Redefining the future of rural health
January 02, 2024, Gregory Hardy
In January, Kevin Bennett has started his term as president of the National Rural Health Association. He’ll be working to turn years of research into policy and action, continuing the impactful work he's spearheaded in South Carolina at the national level.
Trustees approve designs for new School of Medicine Columbia
December 19, 2023, Collyn Taylor
South Carolina is making necessary investments to its physical campus to ensure a world-class academic experience with one of those key pieces being a new School of Medicine Columbia planned for the BullStreet district. The Board of Trustees approved the designs for the first building Tuesday (Dec. 19).
SC high schoolers get close look at health careers
December 11, 2023, Gregory Hardy
Nearly 70 rising high school seniors from across the Midlands invested part of their summer vacation toward gaining in-depth insights into health science careers thanks to a partnership of the College of Nursing, the School of Medicine Columbia and Lexington Medical Center.
USC clinicians bring new tactics to challenge of stroke, neurological disorders in SC
November 21, 2023, Chris Horn
South Carolina has a big shortage of neurologists for its population. While there are efforts in place to address that problem, the University of South Carolina’s School of Medicine in Columbia already has taken major steps to provide better comprehensive stroke care across the state.
2023 rural health faculty experts
November 15, 2023, Gregory Hardy
Thursday (Nov. 16) is National Rural Health Day. The University of South Carolina has a number of faculty members who are available to offer their expertise in rural health services and research.
USC faculty, alumni work to fill health care needs in rural areas
November 10, 2023
Living in a rural community brings lots of advantages: close-knit communities, easy access to nature, less noise and pollution, lower home prices. But a lack of population density also brings challenges, and access to health care is one of them. As daunting as the state’s health issues can seem, the University of South Carolina is well positioned to help.
Pediatric subspecialists move beyond urban hubs to visit rural patients
November 03, 2023, Megan Sexton
The South Carolina Center for Rural and Primary Healthcare at the USC School of Medicine Columbia. works to improve health care delivery for rural communities by operating and facilitating a range of programs. Through one, the Department of Pediatrics sends subspecialists into areas outside the state’s urban hubs.
Health Watch: Concussion 101 for caregivers
September 13, 2023, Laura Morris
For families and organizations that participate in youth sports, it’s important to recognize the risks and harms of concussions and brain injuries. USC clinical assistant professor of pediatrics, Dr. Jeff Holloway, breaks down concussion basics for caregivers, including symptoms, recovery time and when to see a physician.
USC staff sign on for study abroad
July 06, 2023, Rebekah Friedman
Each year, close to 2,000 University of South Carolina undergrads venture overseas for once-in-a-lifetime educational opportunities. And behind the scenes, staff members are there to navigate new terrain, keep schedules running smoothly and provide emotional support when students feel stressed. USC TIMES sat down with five of them to learn more about what they do.
Gerald Harmon selected as School of Medicine Columbia interim dean
June 19, 2023, Dana Woodward
Dr. Gerald Harmon, a decorated South Carolina physician, will step into the interim dean role at the School of Medicine Columbia on Aug. 1.
Sarah Davis blazes trail for mothers pursuing Ph.D.'s
May 11, 2023, Abbey Smith
Sarah Davis’s endometriosis diagnosis spurred the NIH-funded researcher to pursue motherhood while completing her Ph.D. in pharmaceutical sciences. As she prepares to celebrate her first Mother’s Day, Davis reflects on what it means to have a successful academic career while starting a family.
Harnessing the power of artificial intelligence
May 10, 2023
Since establishing an Artificial Intelligence Institute in 2019, the university has seen growing interest in the subject across campus. There are now dozens of researchers throughout the university exploring how artificial intelligence and machine learning can be used to advance fields from health care to manufacturing.
Cannabis-derived products like delta-8 THC and delta-10 THC have flooded the US market
April 28, 2023, Prakash Nagarkatti, Mitzi Nagarkatti
There are signs advertising delta-8 THC, delta-10 THC and CBD, or cannabidiol, everywhere. Professors of pathology Prakash Nagarkatti and Mitzi Nagarkatti write for The Conversation on whether it is safe to consume them and which claimed medicinal benefits hold up to scientific scrutiny.
Leadership, passion make Meera Narasimhan SC telehealth champion
March 16, 2023, Emily Miles
Described as a visionary leader and a passionate educator, Meera Narasimhan, M.D., has been at the forefront of telehealth in South Carolina. Her passion for addressing disparities in health care delivery and her advocacy for mental health awareness have led Narasimhan to a leadership role in medicine in the state.
Meet the Black alumnae whose contributions are commemorated on the Horseshoe
March 14, 2023, Rebekah Friedman
As a tribute to the Black alumnae featured in the student-produced documentary The Backbone, USC’s Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion installed 18 personalized bricks on the Horseshoe. The honorees' stories span seven decades of university history.
People produce endocannabinoids -- similar to compounds found in marijuana - that are critical to many bodily functions
February 22, 2023, Prakash Nagarkatti and Mitzi Nagarkatti
Professors of pathology, microbiology and immunology Prakash Nagarkatti and Mitzi Nagarkatti write for The Conversation on endocannabinoids, compounds found in humans that are similar to those found in marijuana.
Med school professor trains students to focus on patient
January 06, 2023, Page Ivey
James Cook took a circuitous route to being a doctor — one that included stops as a commercial fisherman, shoe salesman and high school biology teacher before going to medical school. His experiences helped inform his practice as an OB/GYN and as a clinical professor.
USC selects lead development team for health sciences campus in BullStreet District
December 13, 2022, Dan Cook
The University of South Carolina has selected Gilbane to lead the planning, design, development and construction of the university’s health sciences campus in the BullStreet District in downtown Columbia, South Carolina. The initial engagement with Gilbane was presented to the Board of Trustees at its Dec. 13 meeting.
What is inflammation?
November 08, 2022, Prakash Nagarkatti and Mitzi Nagarkatti
Immunologists Prakash Nagarkatti and Mitzi Nagarkatti write for The Conversation on how the immune system reacts during infections, vaccinations and autoimmune diseases where the body starts attacking itself.
The riddle of autism
October 20, 2022, Megan Sexton
Researchers from across the University of South Carolina are working together to find answers to the many pieces of the autism puzzle. A new center takes a multidisciplinary approach to better understand neuro-developmental disorders.
New drug therapy might hold potential for individuals with autism
October 18, 2022, Chris Horn
New drug therapies being tested for treatment of schizophrenia hold potential for treating autism, says a School of Medicine Columbia faculty member who studies the brain receptors targeted by the experimental drugs. Daniel Foster joined the Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Neuroscience this past summer.
Will omicron-specific booster shots be more effective at combating COVID-19?
September 20, 2022, Prakash Nagarkatti and Mitzi Nagarkatti
School of Medicine researchers Prakash Nagarkatti and Mitzi Nagarkatti write for The Conversation about how the updated booster shots train the immune system and how protective they might be against COVID-19.
School of Medicine scientist studies germs, good and bad, that shape mucosal immune system
August 10, 2022, Chris Horn
School of Medicine scientist Jason Kubinak studies beneficial interaction between human gut and environmental microbes, exploring basic questions about the nature of harmful viruses and bacteria and how immune response has evolved to control them.
Harnessing the power of artificial intelligence
July 12, 2022
Since establishing an Artificial Intelligence Institute in 2019, the university has seen growing interest in the subject across campus. There are now dozens of researchers throughout the university exploring how artificial intelligence and machine learning can be used to advance fields from health care to manufacturing.
Medical school scientist focuses on rare birth defect
July 07, 2022, Chris Horn
It’s the unspoken fear of new parents — having a child born with a disfiguring birthmark that can mean a lifetime of medical procedures and emotional challenges. Wenbin Tan, a professor of cell biology and anatomy at the School of Medicine Columbia, has devoted much of his research to a congenital neurovascular malformation called Port Wine Stain.
UofSC, Lexington Medical Center enter new partnership
July 05, 2022, Kyndel Lee
The University of South Carolina College of Nursing and Lexington Medical Center have partnered to build a state-of-the-art nursing simulation lab and teaching space to provide clinical training for UofSC’s growing nursing student population.
Should you get a COVID-19 booster shot now or wait until fall?
June 28, 2022, Prakash Nagarkatti, Mitzi Nagarkatti
As COVID-19 vaccines continue to be effective in preventing hospitalizations and deaths, many people have found themselves unsure whether to wait on new, updated formulations of the COVID-19 vaccines or to mix and match combinations of the original vaccine strains. School of Medicine Columbia professors Prakash Nagarkatti and Mitzi Nagarkatti write for The Conversation on whether you should get a COVID-19 booster now or wait until fall.
Pharmacy, medicine alumni team up to find treatments for drug-resistant infections
June 14, 2022, Chris Horn
Bacteriophages are viruses that attack specific bacteria and were discovered a century ago. Phage cocktails, which combine several types of phages, could be administered on a broader scale and diminish the need for antibiotics.
Breakthrough Star: Ana Pocivavsek
June 07, 2022, Page Ivey
Neuroscience professor Ana Pocivavsek studies the impact of sleep disruptions on cognitive dysfunction — particularly during pregnancy, an important period for early brain development.
Ph.D. student strives to provide education for Pakistani women
May 06, 2022, Kyndel Lee
Khadija Kakar knows what it's like to grow up in poverty. But she beat the odds and is working to ensure other women in her home country get the same opportunities for education.
The Best of Times?
April 25, 2022, Craig Brandhorst
A lot happens over the course of an academic year, and there’s absolutely no way to highlight everything. So, no, don’t think of this as a Best Of list. This is merely a smattering of the achievements and memorable moments that defined 2021-22, a small taste of the year that was. Trust us, there’s plenty more where this came from — and plenty more to come.
Why we can't 'boost' our way out of the COVID-19 pandemic for the long term
April 19, 2022, Prakash Nagarkatti and Mitzi Nagarkatti
As mRNA vaccines used in the U.S. against COVID-19 have been successful at preventing hospitalization and death, the vaccines have failed to provide long-term protective immunity to prevent breakthrough infections. School of Medicine Columbia professors Prakash Nagarkatti and Mitzi Nagarkatti write for The Conversation on the COVID-19 booster and retooling existing vaccines to increase the duration of protection.
US News rankings: UofSC tops in International MBA, med school grads in underserved areas
March 28, 2022, Megan Sexton
The University of South Carolina’s international business program retained its spot as the best in the country, while the School of Medicine Columbia remained the best school for graduates practicing in underserved areas, according to the latest U.S. News & World Report’s Best Graduate School rankings.
What is the new COVID-19 variant BA.2, and will it cause another wave of infections in the US?
March 22, 2022, Prakash Nagarkatti and Mitzi Nagarkatti
The COVID-19 omicron variant has been the predominant source of rising infections around the world. BA.2 is the latest subvariant of omicron and is spreading quickly in many countries. School of Medicine Columbia professors, Prakash Nagarkatti and Mitzi Nagarkatti, write for The Conversation on this new strain, if there will be another surge in the U.S. and how to protect yourself.
How long does protective immunity against COVID-19 last after infection or vaccination? Two immunologists explain
February 25, 2022, Prakash Nagarkatti and Mitzi Nagarkatti
Prakash Nagarkatti and Mitzi Nagarkatti, professors of pathology, microbiology and immunology, write for The Conversation on Covid-19 protective immunity via vaccination and infection.
Carolina Survivor Clinic helps traumatized refugees
February 02, 2022, Page Ivey
Founded in 2015 by School of Medicine Columbia faculty member Dr. Rajeev Bais, the Carolina Survivor Clinic provides medical care and emotional support for traumatized refugees from violence in countries around the world.
Is the omicron variant Mother Nature's way of vaccinating the masses?
February 01, 2022, Prakash Nagarkatti, Mitzi Nagarkatti
The characteristics of the COVID-19 omicron variant has many people wondering if it could act as a vaccine of sorts, inoculating enough people to effectively bring about herd immunity. School of Medicine Columbia professors Prakash Nagarkatti and Mitzi Nagarkatti write for The Conversation about immune response to COVID-19.
USC graduates help fill the gaps in rural health care
November 16, 2021, Megan Sexton
As the country marks Rural Health Day this week, the University of South Carolina works — through its School of Medicine, College of Nursing, Arnold School of Public Health and other areas — to understand and improve the delivery of health care in rural and underserved communities.
Gamecock alumnus, physician reflects on how COVID-19 changed how he practices medicine
August 03, 2021, Chris Horn
COVID has offered the health care sector some valuable lessons, says University of South Carolina School of Medicine alumnus Rohit Talwani. A Baltimore-based physician and University of Maryland School of Medicine associate professor of infectious diseases, Dr. Talwani is one of 10 Gamecocks Carolinian magazine spoke to about how the pandemic has changed the way we work.
Cardiovascular Translational Research Center moves forward despite pandemic
July 14, 2021, Craig Brandhorst
Tapped to head the new Cardiovascular Translational Research Center at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine in early 2020, Clinton Webb arrived just in time for lockdown. So, how did he get the blood pumping?
Class of 2021: Joey Driskell
May 03, 2021, Craig Brandhorst
When Joey Driskell crosses the stage to receive his physician’s assistant degree from the School of Medicine this May, he will be 40 years old. His wife will be watching. So will his kids. But if you think for one second he’s getting a late start, think again.
UofSC med school leads nation for grads practicing in underserved areas
March 29, 2021, Megan Sexton
The School of Medicine Columbia is the top medical program in the country for graduates who are practicing in areas where there is a shortage of health care professionals, according to the latest U.S. News & World Report’s Best Graduate School rankings. The rankings also show that UofSC is now home to more than 60 nationally ranked programs.
Match Day 2021
March 15, 2021
School of Medicine Columbia and School of Medicine Greenville students answers what Match Day means to them as they look towards the future.
Medical student awaits residency match with eye toward rural impact
March 12, 2021, Margaret Gregory
Courtney Vandermeersch is reaching the finish line to a Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of South Carolina School of Medicine Columbia. She will be the first to graduate as a recipient of a loan forgiveness program aimed at providing care to underserved areas of the state.
A podcast for every Gamecock ear
March 04, 2021, Chris Horn
The steady rise in podcast popularity has produced a bountiful crop of shows for listeners worldwide — 1.75 million and counting — including a growing list of podcasts produced by University of South Carolina faculty, staff and students.
UofSC center improving access to health care in rural communities
November 17, 2020, Alyssa Yancey
A center based at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine Columbia is working to put boots on the ground to improve access to health care for South Carolinians in rural communities.
VA program helps veterans transition to medical careers
November 09, 2020, Margaret Gregory
Two members of the University of South Carolina School of Medicine Columbia Class of 2024 are bringing unique perspectives as they train for their future careers in medicine. Before entering medical school, Ian MacLeod and Shane Weatherford served their country in the U.S. armed services. Both are able to pursue their education thanks to the Veterans Healing Veterans Scholarship.
Clinical teaching award winner: Andrew Sides
November 03, 2020, Megan Sexton
When Dr. Andrew Sides was a student at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine, he always valued the instruction he received from the students in classes ahead of him. And he enjoyed sharing his knowledge, too.
Doctor, educator, mentor
October 30, 2020, Chris Horn
Patricia Wilson Witherspoon and her siblings might never have made it to college had it not been for their father’s resolve that his children would get a better education than he did, no matter what. Patricia didn't stop until she had earned a medical degree.
How a village of scientists created better testing for COVID-19
August 23, 2020, Chris Horn
Development of a saliva COVID-19 test might never have happened if not for the efforts of a spontaneous coalition of scientists in South Carolina and across the country who worked nearly nonstop and shared results and materials with one another in the weeks before and after the initial lockdown in March.
UofSC among top universities granted U.S. utility patents
July 08, 2020, Communications and Public Affairs
For the eighth-consecutive year, the University of South Carolina stands among the top 100 universities in the world, based on the number of U.S. utility patents faculty members received in 2019. South Carolina ranks 90th worldwide, named as the lead on 31 patents last year.
The future of ultrasound
June 30, 2020, Megan Sexton
A new cardiothoracic assessment tool pioneered at the University of South Carolina combines a hand-held ultrasound device, an electronic stethoscope, and an EKG, all tied together with artificial intelligence.