University of Southern California Welcomes Beong-Soo Kim as Its 13th President

A New Era at USC with President Beong-Soo Kim

The University of Southern California (USC) has embarked on a significant journey as Beong-Soo Kim officially steps in as the institution's 13th president. This milestone was celebrated during a ceremony held at the vibrant University Park campus, where Kim unveiled a visionary agenda aimed at reinvigorating the academic landscape, enhancing interdisciplinary research, and fortifying partnerships with various industry and community stakeholders.

In his address to a gathering of students, faculty, alumni, and friends, Kim emphasized the need for the Trojan community to harness USC's rich history of pioneering efforts as a springboard to shape the future of higher education and society. He remarked, "The measure of a great university is not simply what we achieve, but what we make possible for others," reinforcing a commitment to transformative education.

Kim's unanimous election by the USC Board of Trustees on February 4, 2026, followed a period as Interim President, showcasing a seamless transition in leadership. With a solid foundation established since joining USC's senior leadership in 2020, Kim now occupies the Robert C. Packard President's Chair, embodying a leadership style grounded in conviction and heartfelt care.

As expressed by Suzanne Nora Johnson, chair of the Board of Trustees, Kim is charting a bold course during an unprecedented time in higher education. His innovative vision focuses on "setting a bold course for USC," ensuring that the university remains a pivotal force for good among its students, staff, and the broader community.

Kim’s vision revolves around three key priorities: reimagining the educational experience to prepare students for a rapidly evolving landscape, integrating USC’s academic strengths to confront societal challenges, and strengthening collaborations with industry and community partners to maximize the university's positive impact.

With these initiatives, Kim has announced USC's first holistic redesign of its undergraduate general education program in decades. He highlighted the importance of immersive, experiential learning and interdisciplinary collaboration to better connect students with the dynamic industries and communities surrounding Los Angeles, a global hub of innovation.

Addressing the waning trust in higher education, Kim delivered a straightforward message: universities must rebuild this trust through transparency, meaningful engagement, and unwavering dedication to effecting change. He reiterated the critical importance of responsible stewardship and the necessity of demonstrating the value of higher education based on its impact.

As USC approaches its 150th anniversary in 2030, Kim is determined to harness the institution's founding spirit of innovation, envisioning expanded possibilities for students, the Los Angeles community, and the world.

Kim's connection to USC is profoundly personal. Born to Korean immigrant parents who pursued their graduate studies at USC, he was raised in the Los Angeles area and nurtured through local public schools. Kim's academic accolades include graduating Phi Beta Kappa and magna cum laude from Harvard College, earning a master's degree from the London School of Economics, and receiving a law degree from Harvard Law School.

In summary, as Beong-Soo Kim assumes the presidency, there exists a palpable sense of optimism and potential at USC. With a foundational commitment to innovation, collaboration, and impactful educational practices, Kim is poised to guide the university into a promising future, reinforcing its status as a leading academic institution both nationally and globally.