University of Southern California Names New President

Beong-Soo Kim appointed as the 13th president of the university

Feb. 4, 2026 at 7:07pm

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The University of Southern California (USC) has appointed Beong-Soo Kim as its new president, the university announced on Wednesday. The USC Board of Trustees unanimously approved Kim's appointment following a highly competitive search process.

Why it matters

The selection of a new university president is a significant event that can shape the direction and priorities of an institution for years to come. As a prominent research university, USC's leadership transition is closely watched within higher education circles.

The details

Beong-Soo Kim was selected as USC's 13th president after what officials described as a highly competitive and thorough search process. Kim's appointment was unanimously approved by the USC Board of Trustees.

  • The announcement of Beong-Soo Kim's appointment as USC president was made on February 4, 2026.

The players

University of Southern California (USC)

A private research university located in Los Angeles, California, and one of the most prestigious institutions of higher education in the United States.

Beong-Soo Kim

The newly appointed 13th president of the University of Southern California.

USC Board of Trustees

The governing body of the University of Southern California that unanimously approved Beong-Soo Kim's appointment as president.

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What’s next

The university community will welcome Beong-Soo Kim as he assumes the presidency and outlines his vision and priorities for USC's future.

The takeaway

The appointment of Beong-Soo Kim as the new president of the University of Southern California represents a significant leadership transition for one of the country's most prestigious research universities, signaling an opportunity for the institution to chart a new course under fresh guidance.