From USC leadership: Spring semester, air quality and more

Dear Trojan Family,

Our thoughts and concerns are with those affected by the Los Angeles County wildfires. We’re in close touch with those in need and deeply grateful to the first responders battling these devastating fires.

Our dedicated staff has been working hard to get our campuses ready for the spring semester. We’re thankful for their selfless service, and are ensuring that no one is performing physically strenuous activity outdoors.

We’ll keep you updated on the status of the University Park and Health Sciences campuses and our plans for the spring semester as they evolve over the next week.

As a reminder for those not familiar with the Los Angeles area, USC is not near the wildfires.

1. Our campuses are open, and the spring semester will start as planned on Monday, Jan. 13, with in-person classes.
2. We are monitoring air quality closely. It may be helpful to remember that our HVAC systems were upgraded during the pandemic, and all buildings re-circulate and filter indoor air. Wearing a N95 mask outdoors can reduce exposure when air quality is poor.
3. Many students are already on campus, and all activities have been moved indoors.
4. Students who have difficulties attending in-person classes at the start of next week should contact their faculty members, who have been asked to provide maximum flexibility.
5. New student orientation activities also are continuing indoors, and Panhellenic rush activities are proceeding in person indoors. USC’s varsity athletics competitions will continue as planned.
6. We have established a Wildfire and Air Quality hotline, 213-740-6291, to help answer questions or email: campushealth@usc.edu. An FAQ is located here.
7. Please stay informed by checking the emergency website for regular updates. Thank you.

As we navigate these challenging circumstances, we are inspired by the caring and compassion we are seeing across the Trojan community. The Trojan Family is strong, determined and resilient. Your spirit and hope are powerful healers in these times. Your safety and well-being are our top priorities. Let’s continue to support each other and stay connected. Together, we will fight on and overcome this, and embrace the term ahead with the promise and excitement we love at USC.

Sincerely,

Carol Folt, president, Robert C. Packard President’s Chair
Andrew T. Guzman, provost and senior vice president for academic affairs
Steven Shapiro, senior vice president for health affairs
Stacy Giwa, interim senior vice president of human resources
Sarah Van Orman, chief campus health officer and vice president, campus health