Shaz Umer is serving as director of strategic initiatives in the office of the DOT secretary.

COMMENCEMENT: Brad Dow is set to receive his bachelor’s degree this week. It’s a milestone four decades in the making.

In USC-led research, the new drug candidate selectively attacked glioblastoma stem cells and passed early safety testing in a Phase 1 clinical trial.

COMMENCEMENT: Ashley Espinosa, who interned at the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority, got special insight into the system: She’s inspected every L.A. Metro station.

COMMENCEMENT: Thousands are expected on the University Park Campus for USC’s 142nd commencement celebrations this week. You’ll want to plan accordingly.

A breast milk sensor developed by a USC biomedical engineering team detects acetaminophen, other chemicals and nutrients in real time.

COMMENCEMENT: Mixing his passion for magic with his academic studies, graduating cognitive science major Tyler Gibgot learns he can help others find their own brand of magic. Watch the video and read the story.

Graduates harness advanced technologies to create resilient, agile and sustainable supply chains that benefit business and society.

STORY AND VIDEOS: Executive Chef Luis Santos’ deconstructed Honduran tamale was chosen from five finalists. Read the backstory — and learn how to make this delicious dish.

COMMENCEMENT: Gabrielle and Zoe Edwards did not plan to attend USC together. Fate had a different plan in store for them.