September 2026 Update

Update from the Chancellor

September 2026

Greetings Pacers,

As we approach the midpoint of the semester, I could not be prouder of the progress and momentum we are seeing across USCA. From record enrollment and new academic opportunities to meaningful community partnerships and innovative work in the classroom, this semester already has given us much to celebrate.

On Sept. 9, I had the honor of sharing last year’s accomplishments with our campus and local community during the Annual State of the University Address. The address highlighted a year of growth, achievement and service to the Aiken community, including record enrollment, student success, campus improvements, expanded research, and stronger regional partnerships. These accomplishments reflect the collective efforts of our faculty, staff, students, alumni and community partners, and they position USCA for an exciting future.

Our longstanding partnership with Bridgestone is another example of the impact we can make together. Through a contribution of more than $77,000 to the Ruth Patrick Science Education Center and its Bridgestone Environmental Education Program, Bridgestone is helping provide K-12 students across the CSRA with hands-on STEM learning experiences. This latest investment builds on a 27-year partnership that has contributed nearly $2 million to USCA programs, scholarships and research.

We are also grateful for the leadership and service of Teresa Haas, who recently concluded her service as chair of the Aiken County Commission for Higher Education. During her tenure, Teresa played an integral role in advancing major initiatives on our campus, including her role in bringing to campus the Savannah River National Laboratory’s Advanced Manufacturing Collaborative and the South Carolina National Guard Cyber Integration Center and its Readiness Center. We are grateful that she will continue serving on the board, while Sharon Marra takes on the role of chair.

Innovation continues to be a major focus within our classrooms as well. Several College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences faculty members received development grants designed to help them explore thoughtful and responsible ways to integrate artificial intelligence into their teaching. Inspired by Joseph Aoun’s “Robot-Proof: Higher Education in the Age of Artificial Intelligence,” faculty are examining how we can prepare students not only with knowledge, but with the creativity, collaboration, adaptability and critical thinking skills needed to thrive in an evolving world.

That work already is taking shape in the classroom. Through one of these AI grants, theatre students explored the intersection of creativity, authorship and artificial intelligence through an innovative project led by Etherredge Center Executive Director and theatre instructor Paul Crook and artist-in-residence James Blackmon. Students rehearsed and performed two plays, one written by a human and one generated by AI, without knowing which was which, encouraging them and the audience to consider what creativity means in an age of rapidly advancing technology.

As we look ahead, I hope you will join us for the many opportunities to connect with the USCA community. We invite students, families and friends to join us at 10 a.m. for Family Day on Sept. 26 in the Quad, followed by the opening of our new soccer field at 4 p.m., Poet Claire Bateman will headline the Fall 2026 Oswald Distinguished Writers Series at 7:30 p.m., on Oct. 6 in the Etherredge Center. Also, please save the date for the Mane Event, celebrating our equestrian programs, including our National Championship polo team on from 6-8 p.m., Oct. 29, at Bruce’s Field at Aiken Horse Park on 931 Powerhouse Road in Aiken.

There is much to celebrate at USCA, and I look forward to seeing what more we will accomplish together this semester!

Warmest regards and, as always, Go Pacers!

Dan Heimmermann

Chancellor

News from the University

Chancellor to participate in Chronicle’s webinar

Dr. Daniel Heimmermann will discuss USCA’s efforts to strengthen workforce alignment, program relevance and online learner success during a free webinar hosted by “The Chronicle of Higher Education,” 2 p.m., Sept. 30. The event includes insight into how regional public colleges are responding to enrollment challenges and preparing for the future.

USCA LIFE gives Louisiana student a college home

Ripp Laborde traveled more than 700 miles from Shreveport, Louisiana, to begin his college journey as part of the USCA LIFE program. His family chose USCA because of the comprehensive academic, social and residential support here. The program increases independence, explores career interests and offers an enriching collegiate experience. Now in its fourth year, USCA LIFE has expanded into a four-year program and now includes 37 students.

Students say USCA’s exceptional faculty make an extraordinary impact

Political Science major Tamea Chappelle shared how USCA’s faculty members have energized her academic and professional success. In particular, she highlights her friendship with Dr. Sarah Young, whose guidance has helped her realize internship and research opportunities. This is a microcosm of USCA’s community of committed faculty members, which has proven to be uniquely equipped to provide personal education and mentorship to its students.

Students awarded scholarships in honor of USCA’s first black student

The Black Alumni Council awarded $1,000 Brayboy-Brooks Scholarships to Destiny Jenkins, USCA '27, and Kelvin Hardy Jr., USCA '27, on Sept. 19. The scholarship, named in honor of Barbara Brayboy, USCA’s first Black student, recognizes students who exemplify an inclusive campus environment and demonstrate a range of life experiences, including overcoming adversity or hardship, being a first-generation college student or experiencing socioeconomic disadvantage.

Ruth Patrick Science and Education Center holds STEM fair

More than 3,600 people and almost 80 organizations participated in the 41st Annual SEED STEM Festival. Attendees explored STEM through interactive exhibits, engaging demonstrations and hands-on activities.

Aiken mayor honors USCA students

Aiken’s mayor recognized two USCA students during the inaugural Mayor's Citizens of Excellence Awards ceremony. These awards spotlight people who help strengthen Aiken through everyday acts of service, leadership and compassion.

Students dig into state archives

Alexia Helsley, senior history instructor and university archivist, gave USCA student-researchers a behind-the-scenes tour of the South Carolina Archives, where she worked for 33 years. While there, she stressed the importance of examining primary sources when conducting research and outlined how students can access materials in the state's archives. Several of the students who joined her are Magellan Scholars. Patrick McCawley, deputy director for Archives and Records Management led a tour of the department's "Foundations of a Revolution, 1775-1777" exhibit and then conducted a special behind-the-scenes visit that included a rare 1600s -era document signed by seven of the eight Lords Proprietors of Carolina, the Ordinance of Secession and the state's copy of the Bill of Rights with cover letter signed by President George Washington.

Master's student research published in journal

As a USCA master’s student, Adjunct Professor, Hannah Milius, USCA ’24, worked closely with Dr. Brianne Coulombe, Dr. Bridget Cho, Dr. Jane Stafford and Dr. Kerri Wood, professor emeritus, on a study published in " The Journal of Adolescence” that explored the relationship between teen parents and their children during the first five years of the child’s life. The study challenged common stereotypes about adolescent parents as being "unfit" and showed that, by and large, teen parents adapt successfully to parenthood.

Elementary schoolers tackle STEM activities in AEIX

Tom Scott, workforce development specialist for the College of Sciences and Engineering, conducted a workshop in the AEIX for members of the Aiken County Library's STEM club. The students connected electrical circuits, noodled through some science-related challenges and left with a bag of Pacer swag.

Add Alexia Helsley video on 65 year video -- https://www.linkedin.com/posts/to-grow-and-to-adapt-thats-what-usca-has-ugcPost-7503825715310637057-lWnZ/?utm_source=social_share_video_v2&utm_medium=ios_app&rcm=ACoAAB7nWQoBfnTBbuDEn83RkugAgnlIr6jl7yM

65 years of Pacer history

For 65 years, USCA has continued to grow, adapt and build on a proud history of serving students and the community. Professor Alexia Helsley, USCA archivist, highlights the people, moments and changes that have helped shape the university into what it is today. The Gregg-Graniteville Library's exhibit celebrating the USCA's 65th anniversary is now open. It includes historical artifacts from the university's original campus at Banksia, now the Aiken County Historical Museum. Interesting items include a 1969 yearbook, a copy of the student newspaper, and a beanie, a requirement for freshmen at the time.

As the Gregg-Graniteville Library continues celebrating its 50th anniversary, three USCA Magellan Scholars are transcribing William Gregg’s writings and early Graniteville Company correspondence under the guidance of Deborah Harmon, associate professor of library science, and Dr. Todd Hagstette, assistant professor of English. While conducting this research, Addisen Alvanos, Laurie Collins and Caroline Wright sit at the desk Gregg used when at the helm of his textile company. Some of his original furniture, materials, manuscripts and other artifacts are held in the Gregg-Graniteville Archives and are an important resource in the study of South Carolina and local history.

School of Nursing performs Dedication of Hands ceremony

The School of Nursing held its annual Dedication of Hands ceremony Sept. 14 in the SAC Mezzanine. The ceremony represents a meaningful rite of passage as students prepare to apply the skills they have learned in the classroom to real-world patient care. Throughout their nursing careers, students will rely on their hands to assess comfort and care for patients. From taking vital signs and administering medications to providing reassurance during difficult moments, their hands will become an essential part of how they serve others. The Dedication of Hands ceremony offers students an opportunity to recognize the responsibility that comes with caring for others and the important role they will play in the lives of their future patients.

USCA honors top academic students

USCA released the President’s and Dean’s lists for Spring 2026, which honors and celebrates the achievements of these students. In addition, the Division 2 Athletics Directors Association recently announced the 2025-26 recipients of the D2 ADA Academic Achievement Awards, which included 71 USCA student-athletes. The Academic Achievement Awards, now in its 19th year, recognizes the academic accomplishments of student-athletes at the Division II level in NCAA sponsored sports. To earn the honor, students must have a minimum GPA of 3.5 and completed a minimum of four semesters.

Chancellor shares university’s workforce development with local business leaders

During the Aiken Chamber of Commerce’s First Friday Means Business discussion on Sept. 4, Dr. Heimmermann connected with local business leaders and employers, highlighting how the university prepares the region’s next-gen workforce. He shared updates on workforce development initiatives and new academic programs designed to meet the evolving needs of local industries and build a strong, skilled talent pipeline for employers.

New grant expands free parent support at USCA Psychology Clinic

A new RISE grant provides the community access to free parental support through the USCA Psychology Clinic. The eight-week Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Parents (DBT4P) group offers a supportive space where parents can grow and learn skills such as mindfulness, distress tolerance, and emotion regulation to help manage the stress of being a parent, build a secure and supportive relationship between parents and children, and to discover their parenting values and goals. Childcare is provided.

Local high schoolers spotlight USCA authors

Students from four local high schools researched authors with local connections, including Dr. Drew Geyer, Writer-in-Residence, and Dr. Tom Mack, USCA professor emeritus. Other featured authors included Oswald Writers Series guest lecturers Pam Durban, Terence Hayes and James Legare. The students presented their research Sept. 22 during a poster presentation at the Aiken County Historical Museum.

USCA alum takes her poetry to New York

Erin Weeks, USCA '23, presented her poem “Love is Not a Malfunction” at the National Academy of Design in New York. An emerging media major, Weeks contributed to "Broken Ink" and wrote for "Pacer Times" as a student. She now works for the "Aiken Standard," where she regularly covers USCA.

USCA alum joins intelliSystems

Ryan Henry, USCA '22, joined intelliSystems as its new technology consultant, working with businesses across Augusta, Columbia, Greenville, Savannah and Macon. intelliSystems is an IT services and cybersecurity company that serves small and midsize businesses. It acts as an outside technology partner for companies who don’t have a large internal IT department or may need additional IT expertise.

Exhibit highlights history of USCA partner

Ruth Patrick Science Education Center is hosting SRS@75, a traveling interactive exhibit, which provides an overview of the history and impact of the Savannah River Site. The exhibit is open until Oct. 1.

Learning through the power of a dot

In celebration of International Dot Day on Sept. 15, School of Education students brought literacy and creativity to life at the USCA Children’s Center. Elementary and early childhood education students read "The Dot" to young learners before leading a hands-on art activity inspired by the story. The experience allowed USCA students to apply their teaching skills while encouraging creativity and a love of reading among the children. The children’s artwork will also be displayed on the second-floor lobby area of the Business and Education Building.

Waka Flocka Flame brings the energy to USCA

Rap artist Waka Flocka Flame took over USCA’s Convocation Center on Sept. 10 as the headliner for the Welcome Back Unplugged Concert, hosted by the Pacer Union Board and Student Affairs as part of Weeks of Welcome. The renowned rapper had the crowd singing along to some of his biggest hits and invited members of the USCA Greek Life community on stage where they showcase their fraternity and sorority strolls alongside the performer. Jasmine Preston USCA ’18, known as DJ Storm Cloud brought her own creative energy to the evening as the opening act before the concert.

Upcoming Aiken in the Exchange events

Aiken in the Exchange, a free lecture series, continues in October in the AEIX, located in the Tom Young Center for Research and Innovation.

Oct. 8, at 11 a.m.

“South Carolina – Where the Revolutionary War was Won,” presented by Professor Alexia Helsley

Oct. 22, at 11 a.m.

“Not Your Grandfather’s Network: Adventure and Conspiracy on the History Channel," presented by Dr. Courtlyn Pippert

Save the date

2026 Fall Open House

USCA will host a full morning of activities including an information fair with a variety of campus departments and programs, a walking tour of our beautiful campus and freshman apartments, a review of admissions requirements and financial aid opportunities, and a complimentary lunch in our campus dining hall. The event will be at 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. on Oct. 31. Registration is required.

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