New Crests for USC Residential Colleges
USC’s residential colleges are given crests that reflect their unique qualities.
USC transformed its housing for freshmen entirely into residential colleges in 2012—bringing special cultural programming, academic opportunities and mentoring from faculty to more students. With several new colleges set to open at USC Village in 2017, the university recently unveiled official crests to represent each of its colleges—both existing and new. Some echo the colleges’ pasts, while others evoke histories that have yet to be written. Here are just a few.
Birnkrant Residential College
Located next to Leavey Library
Dubbed “seven floors of open doors” for its social atmosphere, this college currently houses freshmen who are Trustee, Presidential and Mork Family scholars. The crest features a “B” for Birnkrant, the Torch of Knowledge, a book and a door.
Parkside Arts and Humanities Residential College
Located at Parkside—Exposition Boulevard and Vermont Avenue
This creative community is home to students of music, art and literature. It’s known for its performance and practice spaces. The crest draws from the surrounding landscape of Mudd Hall and Hahn and Nazarian plazas.
McCarthy Honors College
Located at USC Village—north side of Jefferson Boulevard
Endowed by the Thomas and Dorothy Leavey Foundation, this college will provide a home for exceptional scholars. The design is inspired by McCarthy Quad, which was named in honor of Leavey Foundation Chair Kathleen Leavey McCarthy ’57.
New North Residential College
Located on Figueroa Street between 34th Street and Childs Way
This college is a hub of activity and combines two closely connected buildings. Interlocking angles on the crest evoke connections.
Parkside International Residential College
Located at Parkside—Exposition Boulevard and Vermont Avenue
Global issues are a focus for this community, which includes many students from other nations. A display of flags on the crest represents the international traditions celebrated at the college.
South Residential College
Located on Figueroa Street between Hellman and Childs ways
Home to residents with a passion for social change, this community is represented by a compass rose, signifying exploration. The college includes residents of Marks and Trojan halls and Pardee and Marks towers.
West Residential College
Located near the Lyon Center—Jefferson Boulevard and McClintock Avenue
West comprises two adjoining towers, Webb and Fluor. The college’s crest shows two adjoining colors, with the sun setting to the west.
