With more than 370,000 system alumni, the University of South Carolina has stories to tell, and Carolinian is here to tell them. From celebrated artists, scientists and business leaders to everyday alumni who embody the spirit of Carolina, this is our story — and this is your magazine.
Carolinian is published three times a year and distributed to members of the USC Alumni Association and friends of the university. Select features from the print edition can be found here, alongside web-exclusive stories, videos and interviews that celebrate our successes, revisit our history and remind us what it means to be a Carolinian. Forever to thee!
Future so bright
When the central portion of Thornwell College was completed in 1913, the building became the first new residence hall to open on campus since 1848. Thornwell’s east and west wings were added in 1937. Now, Thornwell is enjoying new life. Exterior fire escapes have been replaced with an internal exit corridor, living spaces have been reimagined and the courtyard has been prettied up. Pre-renovation, Thornwell accommodated just 60 beds; it now sleeps 139.
Life, Death and Community on the Eurasian Steppe
USC anthropologist Magadalena Stawkowski spent years interviewing the people who live near the Semipalatinsk nuclear test site in rural Kazakhstan. Her 2025 book, Atomic Collective, examines culture and community in one of the most toxic places on Earth.
Beau Knows Curling
When Beau Welling isn’t designing golf courses, he’s planning other spaces. And when he’s not doing that, he’s . . . promoting curling?
Long Story Short
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Carolina Band records for video game, masters Metallica
The University of South Carolina marching band won the 2025 EA Sports Metallica Collegiate Edition Marching Band Competition, a one-time chance to record a new arrangement of an iconic Metallica song for the next iteration of EA Sports popular College Football video game.
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Retired English Professor David Shields debuts SCETV food show
Retired professor David Shields is pouring his research skills and foodways connections into a new SCETV program with chef, educator and cohost Kevin Mitchell. The Savers of Flavor, produced and directed by filmmaker Ginger Cassell, debuted this spring.
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History doctoral student Kay Andrea documents the untold stories of women in motorcycling
When she’s not riding her Harley, Karan “Kay” Andrea explores the role women have played in motorcycle culture. The first-year Ph.D. student has also built a community where female motorcyclists can connect and develop confidence.




