We are limited today not by innovation, but by human choices.
Climate change—arguably the most pressing issue ever faced by humankind. At USC Dornsife, we are investing in research to drive technological innovation, as well as the systems, policies and mindsets that must drive societal transformation. We grapple with complex questions related to the human dimensions of sustainability—the economics, politics, and mindsets that continue to stand in the way of making critical progress. To broaden our impact, we are collaborating with policymakers and business leaders who are tasked with implementing solutions. We have opportunities to change our trajectory from one in which climate changes brings disastrous effects upon the natural environment, our global economy and human health to a future that thrives on clean energy, ingenuity and boundless opportunity.
USC Dornsife in Action
Finding ways to address climate change and its effects, curb the spread of pollution and reduce waste rise are top priorities for scholars at USC Dornsife. We’re also tapping our experts in history, culture, narrative and philosophy to offer new frameworks for understanding how humans interact with the environment. Faculty from disciplines across the College continue to produce innovative research and initiatives that improve the planet and pave the way not only for healthier communities, but also for a more sustainable future.
Because sustainability challenges are as complex as the people and social structures that create them, the USC Wrigley Institute has expanded its mission to connect our natural and marine science researchers more deeply with our academic strength across the social sciences. Working under one umbrella, USC Wrigley develops new strategies for using the knowledge we have about human motivation, economic systems, and political structures to shorten the road from innovation to impact.
At the Huntington-USC Institute on California and the West, a team led by Professor William Deverell place western wildfire in historical context and broaden public awareness of the region’s relationship with fire. Pulling together ecologists, Indigenous fire practitioners, U.S. Forest Service personnel, Earth scientists, economists, political scientists, journalists and many others, The West on Fire initiative is a timely opportunity to develop new ways of thinking about fire in the region.
Under the leadership of Distinguished Professor Manuel Pastor, the USC Dornsife Equity Research Institute (ERI) uses data analysis to power social change with an emphasis on the impacts of climate change, air pollution, and urban heat zones on communities of color. Among ERI’s projects, researchers use geographic information systems to visualize and analyze demographic and economic shifts that inform state policy and “Green Zone” initiatives.
Learn more about the ways that USC Dornsife is uniquely tackling sustainability.
Communities of Support
A Legacy for Family and Future
Sustainability is a balance between the environment and all the life it nurtures and the practice of using natural resources responsibly so they can support present and future generations.
An Island of Support
With directed giving like this, you have the ability to create opportunity. That opportunity can provide others with a direction in life.
We are partners in a shared journey to change our world for the better. Every contribution to USC Dornsife counts towards our ability to enhance the training of the next generation of leaders, providing opportunities for innovation and creative freedom through research and expert faculty recruitment. Your gifts are making an impact at USC Dornsife and we thank you!
See the impact of donors’ support.
We are partners in a shared journey to change our world for the better. Every contribution to USC Dornsife counts towards our ability to enhance the training of the next generation of leaders, providing opportunities for innovation and creative freedom through research and expert faculty recruitment. Your gifts are making an impact at USC Dornsife and we thank you!
See the impact of donors’ support.
How You Can Help
With support from our community, USC Dornsife can continue to tackle this enormous and pressing issue from all angles. Working together, along with leaders in the public, private and nonprofit sectors, USC Dornsife is carving out a distinctive leadership role that emphasizes our collective responsibility and limitless opportunities to safeguard our planet for future generations. Gifts of any size will help us in this important initiative.
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Provide funding to help USC Dornsife become a leader in environmental economics and behavioral science. Support will help recruit star groups of faculty in these areas.
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The USC Wrigley Marine Science Center on Santa Catalina Island campus offers immersive learning and research experiences for students, faculty and fellows. Renovations will bring labs, classrooms and other facilities into the 21st century and reduce the Center’s environmental impact.
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Endowed faculty chair positions make it possible for us to attract, retain and honor the best scholars, ensuring our academic programs remain excellent for generations to come. While the research, scholarship and teaching of the chair holder revolutionizes the way we look at a field of study today, the existence of the chair itself stands as a lasting tribute to the vision of the donor.
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Research at USC Dornsife is greatly benefitted by postdoctoral scholars. These individuals have received their doctoral degree and have the knowledge and training to help advance faculty research.
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Scholarship support empowers students to engage in broad and deep learning, service, research and extra-curricular activities that shape them into global citizens who navigate complexity with confidence. Support, merit or needs-based, provides students with the education and experiences that cultivates analytical, communication and problem-solving skills.
Make Your Gift
Your gift attracts the top students, funds the next big breakthrough and supports a community of scholars committed to tackling the most pressing issues we face as a society.
Connect With Us
USC Dornsife Office of Advancement
1150 South Olive Street, Suite 2400
Los Angeles, CA 90015
Mail Checks to:
USC Advancement Gift Services
1150 South Olive Street, Suite 2500
Los Angeles, California 90015
USC Tax ID: 95-1642394