College of Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences

For sociology major Joseph Jimenez, becoming the first in his family to attend college meant navigating unfamiliar territory while carrying his family's hopes for the future. “First-generation students often carry the hopes and dreams of an entire family while navigating an unfamiliar system,” said Dr. David Morris II, associate professor of communication and emerging media. “That experience requires courage, perseverance and determination.” Without firsthand experience of higher education, parents and other family members may not always know how to guide students through the college experience. As a result, first-generation students like Jimenez, a member of USCA's Class of 2028, may face challenges that are unfamiliar to students whose families have attended college. “Growing up, I always enjoyed going to school mainly because of the people I surrounded myself with,” Jimenez said. “My parents never had the privilege to pursue higher education after high school, but they encouraged me to do so. [I was afraid] of going to college only to be in debt, since we didn't have enough funds.” Affordability is an important consideration for many first-generation students. At USCA, more than 30 percent of undergraduates receive full tuition support, and in recent years, scholarships and financial aid have helped more than 40 percent graduate debt-free. First-generation students account for 26 percent of the university's student body. Charting a course While considering his college major during his senior year of high school, Jimenez decided to join the National Guard to help finance his education. “Personal circumstances played an important role in my decision to pursue higher education,” Jimenez said. “I was able to become the first in my immediate family to attend college, and when I discovered the National Guard would pay for my school, I knew it was the perfect opportunity.” The transition to college, however, presented challenges beyond paying tuition. “As a first-gen college student, I struggled to understand how scholarships and financial aid worked,” Jimenez said. “Deadlines messed with me a bit since when I got back from military training, I only had less than a month left before classes began.” Jimenez found guidance through USCA's academic advising, departmental resources and student support services, including the financial aid office and the Veteran and Military Student Success Center. “The staff at USCA made me feel neither shy nor afraid to ask for help. Everyone here is very welcoming, and you learn a lot about how to receive help here at USCA during orientation,” he said. The university's close-knit campus community has also helped Jimenez feel connected and confident about his future. “I chose USCA because of how close it is to home, and the small, close-knit community [it] provides,” Jimenez said. “The faculty provides me with many opportunities to get involved with leadership programs that I feel are very resourceful for my career goals. I can also talk to my advisor with any questions I have about my education so that I may be pointed in the right direction.” Experience becomes mentorship Morris, a first-generation college graduate himself, understands the challenges students like Jimenez face. His experiences have shaped his approach to teaching, advising and mentoring the next generation of college students. “First-generation students bring valuable perspectives because they often see challenges differently and understand the importance of creating opportunities for others,” Morris said. Before attending college, Morris worked in the information technology industry. After experiencing burnout, he began exploring new possibilities and ultimately pursued higher education, a decision that transformed his personal and professional outlook. “Growing up, I did not initially understand that education represented opportunities,” Morris said. “As a first-generation student, I didn't have a roadmap, but I knew that earning a degree in something I am passionate about could open doors that had never been available before.” Although Morris developed resilience and resourcefulness during college, he emphasizes that he did not succeed alone. Building relationships with faculty, advisors and mentors helped him navigate an unfamiliar environment and recognize opportunities he might otherwise have missed. “I’ll never forget what it felt like to navigate college without a blueprint,” he said. “That experience reminds me to be intentional about supporting students wherever they are on their journey. Looking back, college didn't just prepare me for my current career; it changed the way I saw the world and the possibilities I believed were within reach.” Today, Morris draws on those experiences to help students take ownership of their education, navigate university resources and prepare for meaningful careers. “As a faculty member, I recognize how important representation is,” Morris said. “When first-generation students see professors and professionals who have walked a similar path, it reinforces the message that success is attainable.” He also understands how much knowledge students may need to acquire independently when they cannot rely on family members who have attended college. “Many students learn about admissions, financial aid, course registration, internships and career planning from family members who have already gone through the process,” Morris said. “I had to figure much of that out on my own, often by asking questions and relying on faculty, advisors and mentors.” Earning his degree became more than a personal achievement. It was a source of pride for his family and opened professional opportunities he had not previously imagined. That experience continues to inform his commitment to helping students recognize their own potential. Morris believes first-generation students bring valuable perspectives to campus life, enriching the university community through their experiences, determination and insights. You belong Morris encourages first-generation students to make the most of their college experience by pursuing opportunities beyond the classroom, including research, internships, student organizations and community projects. Just as importantly, he urges them to seek guidance from faculty and staff whenever they need it. “Don't be afraid to ask questions. Every successful college student needs help along the way, and asking for guidance is a strength, not a weakness,” Morris said. Jimenez has embraced that advice as he continues his own college journey. “From everything I've experienced so far, I've learned that I should never be afraid to ask questions about anything,” Jimenez said. “Even in high school, I was so naive about college and avoided talking about it. But asking questions about anything you need help with is the right thing to do, especially for first-gen college students.” For Morris, the message he hopes every first-generation student takes to heart is simple. “Remember that you belong here,” Morris said. “Your background is not a disadvantage. It gives you a unique perspective and resilience that can become one of your greatest strengths.”

For University of South Carolina Aiken student Sophia Lindale, ‘27, the crown she wears as Royal Miss South Carolina represents more than a title. It’s an opportunity to use her voice, uplift others and turn personal challenges into purpose.  A communication major from North Augusta, Lindale uses her platform to mentor younger pageant participants, promote her anti-bullying initiative, Be Pretty, and encourage others to find confidence in themselves. Lindale’s passion for communication began with her love of public speaking. Her experiences in pageantry have given her opportunities to connect with others, share her story and develop skills she hopes to carry into her future career.   The journey to pageantry   Lindale’s pageant journey began at a young age after watching her older sister compete in a school pageant    Despite not wanting to compete initially in this year’s Royal Miss South Carolina Pageant, Lindale ultimately took home the title over the summer. “Everything felt surreal. There is nothing like the moment they call your name. I am proud to be given the opportunity. This title means more than just a pretty crown and sash; it’s the pleasure to serve South Carolina and others,” Lindale said.  Through her involvement with the Little Miss South Carolina Organization, Lindale has developed lasting friendships and found opportunities to give back. During the most recent season, the pageant and contestants raised $50,000 for Prisma Health Children’s Hospital.  One of the most rewarding parts of Lindale’s reign has been serving as a role model for younger queens. Through her Be Pretty platform, Lindale hopes to encourage young people to embrace their individuality and treat others with kindness. She also hopes to encourage more women ages 20 to 26 to get more involved in pageantry.   Finding strength through loss   Lindale’s year as Royal Miss South Carolina also came with challenges. During the pageant’s final week earlier this year, she experienced the unexpected loss of her father, Michael Lindale, who worked at Bridgestone for 15 years. Despite the difficult loss, Lindale continues to carry the lessons her father taught her, including the importance of hard work and perseverance. His influence continues to shape how she approaches her education, service and responsibilities as Royal Miss South Carolina title.  Lindale said losing her father also taught her the importance of giving others grace, because you never know what someone may be going through.   “He was hardworking. We felt like he missed out on a lot since he was always working and that's what pushes me to continue going through school, because he taught me to push hard for what you want,” Lindale said.  How USCA and faculty shaped her future  Lindale credits USCA’s supportive faculty and flexible academic environment with helping her balance the demands of college, work and pageantry. Her connection to USCA began while she was a dual-enrollment student at North Augusta High School. Lindale credits supportive faculty members who have helped her easily transition to college and balance competing responsibilities.  “The faculty here are exceptional. Whenever I need additional guidance, they are right there to assist. They genuinely care about their students, and their support has meant the world to me," Lindale said.   After graduating in fall 2027, Lindale plans to pursue a master’s degree in speech-language pathology.   “Choosing USCA was a simple ‘yes!’ I commute from North Augusta to Aiken two to three days a week and this allows me to still work. USCA has the flexibility that I need,” Lindale said.  Not only did USCA give Lindale the flexibility she needed to pursue her academics, but she was also able to be joining organizations such as Lambda Pi Eta in spring of this year, an achievement she said was especially meaningful because of her family’s journey.  “Sophia is a great student and a member of our communications honor society, Lambda Pi Eta. She is super resilient and a model for others,” said Dr. Jason Munsell, associate professor and chair of communication and emerging media.   Lindale’s pageant experiences have also helped her fellow students. “Sophia leads by example in the classroom, and she brings out the best in others. Sophia graciously shared public speaking advice from her years of experience with her classmates before the final presentations in our Workplace Communication course. Her practical and supportive approach helped everyone feel more confident,” said Elizabeth Webb, senior instructor of communication.  Looking ahead, Lindale hopes to expand her Be Pretty platform and push for anti-bullying efforts. “I really want to write a book about my platform and my story and hopefully get an antibullying bill sent to state,” Lindale said. 

Students have many reasons for picking the college they ultimately call home — academic programs, research opportunities, student organizations and dorm accommodations all work to enrich their experiences, while financial aid and scholarships help keep costs down. Students find all that at the University of South Carolina Aiken — and more. Beyond those qualities, some students decide to attend USCA because of the small class sizes and the engaged faculty who know each student by name. With a 17:1 student-to-faculty ratio, USCA students won’t find themselves in a lecture hall with 200 others, being taught by a graduate student teaching assistant. At USCA, 76 percent of the faculty hold doctorate degrees. Professors, instructors, and lecturers often lead small-group discussions, take classes outside and personally invest in students’ success. Faculty make the difference For Tamea Chappelle from Columbia, South Carolina, life on campus in Aiken has been shaped by what she’s learned in the classroom and through the relationships she has with faculty members who have encouraged her. “[Faculty] saw my potential even when I didn’t,” said Chappelle, USCA ’27. “I extend my utmost gratitude to them for positively influencing my academic experience.” Political science professor Dr. Sarah Young, Chappelle’s advisor, describes her as driven, exemplary and highly capable. “Students can come to class and do really good work,” Young said. “But sometimes it helps to have a faculty member that is cuing them to career-building opportunities that may exist.” Chappelle shared that this kind of assistance helped her make inroads as a growing professional. “Dr. Young is the reason I was able to become a research assistant and an intern,” Chappelle said. “She has regularly encouraged me since I first came to USCA.” She adds that, with Young’s guidance, she feels prepared to find and pursue beneficial opportunities, both educational and professional — like an internship with the Aiken County Voter Registration and Elections office and a research assistantship with Dr. Dakoda Trithara, another professor in the political science program. “I appreciate how down-to-earth and genuine USCA faculty are,” Chappelle said. “Even the faculty I’ve briefly interacted with have left an impact on me. They are understanding and try to help the best they can.” Chappelle’s positive experiences reflect broader trends at the university. On USCA’s 2026 National Survey of Student Engagement, Pacers rated student-faculty interactions higher than students at peer institutions rated theirs. Almost 85 percent of USCA respondents indicated they are satisfied with their academic advisement. Graduation is the destination, but getting there takes guidance and support. Advisors help students chart their courses each semester while also navigating academic and professional decisions along the way. “USCA faculty have assisted me through the good and bad aspects of my academic journey. They saw my potential even when I didn’t,” Chappelle said. To help prepare her students for careers after graduation, Young makes it a goal to support all her students in their search for professional experiences, especially if the students themselves are motivated to take on new opportunities. Recognizing Chappelle’s dedication to her work, Young said she was excited for the chance to help Chappelle find a place to channel that passion. For example, Young knew Trithara was looking for high-performing students to help with an interesting research project. Young told him about Chappelle’s writing and research skills, and he invited Chappelle to join his efforts. The political science major not only helped with the research, but she also earned a Magellan Scholar award, which funded her part of the effort. Young also knew of a USCA alumnus who works for the local elections office and needed interns to assist with primary elections. She gave the alum a heads up about Chappelle. “Tamea was the one that took the initiative to apply to both opportunities and demonstrate how effective she could be. I was more of an intermediary that tried to help open the door for her,” Young said. Chappelle said her interactions with USCA faculty members have been consistently characterized by sincerity and eagerness to assist. For her, faculty members have always been a steady source of direction. Investing time in student success This sense of steadiness is not accidental. It is reflected in the longevity of USCA’s faculty members, many of whom are USCA alumni themselves, who comprise a stable, robust community. Out of 167 full-time faculty members, the average length of service is 12 years, and 30 have served at the school for more than 20 years. Many of them attended USCA and chose to return to their alma mater as professors. Currently, 19 percent of the faculty are USCA alumni. Almost 80 percent of USCA’s faculty have earned doctorates in their disciplines. Many have professional, military and industry-related experiences as well. Through continuing education, conference attendance and presentations and membership in academic and professional organizations, faculty keep up on emerging trends in their fields. Many USCA faculty members have written books in their areas of study. Additionally, faculty offer undergraduates the opportunity to participate in research, including taking students to professional conferences where they present their findings and the impacts of what they’ve studied and learned. This year, USCA faculty have been awarded almost $1.9 million for research, which has included many students. The numbers demonstrate the degree to which USCA faculty members invest in the school. They are in it for the long haul. Students see the difference “It excites and nurtures [faculty] to be able to work with outstanding, caring students and to know that we had something to do with their achievement,” Young said. “Tamea is not only an excellent student; she is a person of great integrity and a leader. So I hope that it is an encouragement to her to know that her professors see that.” Through dependable support and personalized mentorship, faculty members play an important part in students’ academic journeys. Chappelle said life as a student has not been without its challenges. Certainly, navigating them can prove difficult, but with the right support, students can feel confident as they make their educational and professional aspirations reality. “We truly care about our students. Our doors are always open; students can always reach out to us. Faculty and staff in higher education are not removed elitists,” Young said. “We have worked hard to learn and ask probing questions about the world, but we are not sitting in some ‘ivory tower.’ We are just across campus, a visit, a phone call, an email away, ready to help.”

Sixty-five years after the University of South Carolina Aiken began with a promise to provide educational opportunities that would serve students and strengthen the region, that promise is taking shape on a much larger scale. As USCA celebrates its 65th year, record enrollment, expanded academic programs, significant research investments, new campus facilities and increased community engagement are driving a period of strong growth and momentum. Chancellor Daniel Heimmermann highlighted those accomplishments and more during his annual State of the University Address on Sept. 9. “We are one of the fastest-growing universities in the southeast, a testament to USCA’s widening reputation as a premier regional university,” Heimmermann told the audience at the Etherredge Center on campus. For the third consecutive year, USCA has recorded historic enrollment. Fall 2026 enrollment will exceed 4,500 students, including 3,559 undergraduate and 970 graduate students. Overall enrollment has increased nearly 10% from the previous fall, with undergraduate enrollment growing 8% and graduate enrollment increasing 25%. The university also welcomed its largest freshman class in history, while applications from students outside USCA’s traditional service area increased significantly. Freshman applications increased 47% overall, while applications from students outside the university’s traditional service area increased 81%. USCA ultimately enrolled 43% more students from outside that traditional area this fall. Preparing Pacers for what comes next At the center of USCA’s continued growth is its academic mission. During the past academic year, faculty within the College of Sciences and Engineering developed new bachelor’s programs in cybersecurity and electrical engineering, along with an online master’s program in exercise and sports science with a concentration in strength and conditioning. The School of Business also expanded its offerings, with new MBA specializations in areas including artificial intelligence for business, corporate governance, healthcare operations, human resources operations and project leadership. The university’s bachelor’s programs in Process and Mechanical Engineering earned ABET accreditation, while the School of Business was reaccredited by AACSB, an organization representing the top 6% of business schools and programs. “USCA remains committed to delivering a flexible and relevant curriculum that prepares our graduates to meet South Carolina’s current and future workforce needs,” he said. USCA’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, which is celebrating 25 years of preparing graduates for the health care workforce, achieved a 100% pass rate on the National Council Licensure Examination among its December graduates. USCA’s elementary education programs also received a grade of “A” from the National Council on Teacher Quality. More than 320 USCA students completed internships during the past year, with more than 150 employer sponsors. Students gained experience with organizations including Savannah River Site, Savannah River Mission Completion, Savannah River National Laboratory, school districts, health care organizations and other businesses and agencies. Students also gained hands-on experience through undergraduate research and campus-based opportunities. Thirty science and engineering students presented their summer research at the seventh annual Summer Scholar Institute Research Symposium, while biology majors Hayden Driver and Joseph Suazo spent the summer conducting research at Harvard Medical School under the direction of USCA alumna Dr. Connie Arthur. The university’s student-run Regional Security Operations Center also expanded its experiential learning opportunities to students from South Aiken and Aiken High School. These out-of-class learning experiences help students connect their academic preparation with the world beyond USCA, Heimmermann said. Growth that supports student success While more students are choosing USCA, the university is also focused on helping them stay, succeed and graduate. Student retention has increased 11% over the past five years, a result Heimmermann attributed in part to the university’s holistic approach to student support throughout campus, from academic advising and tutoring to coaching and faculty mentorship. The Student Success Center and Gregg-Graniteville Library have expanded collaborative efforts to connect students with the resources they need. Nearly 80% of academically at-risk students who participated in academic coaching improved their cumulative GPA. The Faculty Advisor Academy also continued to grow, offering 50 workshops during the past academic year with 298 attendees. More than 30 faculty members participated in the series. Those efforts are contributing to another important milestone: USCA produced 925 graduates during the past academic year across its certificate, bachelor’s and master’s programs. The university’s commitment to access also remains strong. Tuition rates have remained constant for eight years, while USCA awarded nearly $36 million in federal and state scholarships and more than $1.6 million in private awards to more than 1,000 students during 2025-26. Campus takes shape for the future The transformation happening at USCA is not limited to enrollment and academics. It can be seen across the campus itself. This fall, engineering classes moved into the Advanced Manufacturing Collaborative, giving students access to a facility operated in partnership with SRNL. The Dr. Robert Alexander Student Activities Center received upgrades, including improvements to Starbucks, along with completion of the new Pacer Soccer Field. Construction is also underway on the South Carolina National Guard Readiness Center, which will provide training space for guardsmen as well as conference rooms, classrooms and other spaces for the university. Later this fall, construction is expected to begin on the South Carolina National Guard Cyber Integration Center next to the AMC. There, USCA students and staff will have opportunities to work and learn alongside National Guard personnel. Across campus, nearly $9.5 million was invested in maintenance and improvements during the past year. The university also committed more than $1.2 million to technology upgrades across 41 classrooms and meeting spaces. A new high-performance computing research cluster now gives USCA science and engineering faculty expanded access to computing resources for complex research. USCA’s Facilities Master Plan outlines a vision for a campus that increasingly transitions from a commuter school toward a more residential university, including improved gathering spaces, additional green space, a revitalized quad, new wayfinding signage, additional student housing and plans for an entertainment, restaurant and retail district. More than a university USCA’s influence extends well beyond the boundaries of campus. The university contributes more than $350 million annually to the regional economy and supports nearly 2,800 jobs. It also sits at the center of the emerging Aiken Innovation and STEM Corridor, connecting academic programs and applied research with initiatives such as the AMC and the future South Carolina National Guard Cyber Integration Center. The university’s role in developing the region’s future workforce begins early. The Ruth Patrick Science Education Center welcomes more than 75,000 K-12 students annually through educational events and programs, while the Aiken Scholars Academy continues to provide a pathway for high-achieving students into higher education. USCA also strengthened its regional partnerships this year through the inaugural AI & Cyber Innovation Week, which brought together industry, academia and government to focus on artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, energy and defense. The university also established the USCA Innovation, Economic and Workforce Development Council to help align research, innovation and strategic initiatives with regional economic development priorities. And this summer, the Aiken Energy & Innovation Exchange opened downtown, providing students, educators, industry leaders and community members with access to USCA’s cybersecurity and innovation resources. The university’s impact is equally visible through its cultural and community programs. The Etherredge Center, celebrating its 40th anniversary, welcomed approximately 32,000 people during the past year, a 14% increase over the previous year. Cultural Series ticket sales increased 52%. USCA LIFE also continued to expand opportunities for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This year, the program has grown to 37 students and has expanded to include a four-year program. In March, USCA LIFE partnered with the South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce to host its first employer summit, connecting students with organizations and agencies to explore employment opportunities. One of those students, third-year USCA LIFE student Breyden Anderson, represented Aiken at the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games in Minneapolis, where he earned a bronze medal in tennis. The program also expanded its reach this year by welcoming its first student from more than 700 miles away, Ripp LaBorde, who joined USCA LIFE from Shreveport, Louisiana. A stronger foundation for the future Behind the university’s growth is an equally important investment: the people and partnerships that make USCA possible. The university received $2.55 million in philanthropic support during fiscal year 2026, its strongest fundraising year in five years and a 15% increase over the previous year. More than $1.6 million of that support went toward scholarships for USCA students. USCA’s newest alumni also began a tradition of giving through the inaugural Reins of Legacy giving society, with more than 130 graduating seniors making their first philanthropic gift to the university. State support also played an important role. USCA received more than $1 million in tuition mitigation, $2.5 million for deferred maintenance and $5 million for the Penland Welcome Center renovation. Looking ahead Sixty-five years into its history, USCA is growing in ways its founders could hardly have imagined. What began as a university serving a much smaller student population has evolved into a growing regional institution with more than 4,500 students, expanding academic programs, nationally recognized research and an increasingly visible role in the Aiken community and beyond. “With your continued support, building upon our tremendous legacy and momentum, USCA will continue its responsive and impactful service to its students and our community in fulfillment of its original promise made six and a half decades ago,” Heimmermann said.

A record number of freshmen began their college careers at the University of South Carolina Aiken for the 2026-27 academic year, marking another year of significant enrollment growth for the university. Approximately 700 freshmen are enrolled for the fall semester, an 18 percent increase from last year’s freshman class.  In addition to its freshman enrollment, the university reported 442 registered transfer students.   “This record-breaking class is a strong signal that families across South Carolina and beyond understand USCA delivers a high value, personal college experience that prepares students for real careers,” said Nathan Rice, vice chancellor of enrollment management and marketing.   Rice added that this year's growth is the result of a campus-wide effort, with admissions, financial aid, and marketing each playing an important role. “The team’s consistency and follow-through helped turn the great work happening on this campus into applications and enrollments.”  The university officially welcomed the Class of 2030 during its annual Freshman Convocation on Aug. 17. Students gathered in the Quad before taking the traditional walk across the bridge to the Convocation Center, where faculty and staff formally welcomed them to the USCA community.  This year’s convocation theme centered around “Home,” encouraging students to think about how they will build their own sense of belonging and community during their time at USCA.  The theme resonated closely with Dr. Brianne Coulombe, an associate professor in the Department of Psychology, who served as one of the event’s guest speakers.  Coulombe shared words of encouragement with the new Pacers, comparing their academic plans to a blueprint for their college experience.  “Sitting here today, you have the blueprint for building a home at USCA that is functional and uniquely yours,” she said. “If you forget, just look back at the major map you got from advising and you’ll see all your general education requirements, your cognate, and specific classes you need for your major. But that’s all it is. A blueprint. Your job now is to make that blueprint into a home.”  For Laura Nolasco-Gonzalez, joining the Pacer community means beginning her college journey close to home while pursuing a degree in Nursing.  Nolasco-Gonzalez, who joins USCA from Johnston, SC, said the university’s location and nursing program were among the top reasons she chose to come to Aiken.   “I chose USCA because it is close to home, it has a great nursing program, and USCA's pride in helping students develop as they adapt to a new environment,” she said.  Nolasco-Gonzalez says she’s thankful to several campus organizations for helping guide her decision to choose USCA, including the Delight ministry, Hispanic Student Association and Project Pacer.   Project Pacer is an extended orientation experience designed to help incoming students build connections, develop a sense of belonging, and feel more comfortable as they transition into college.  “The most exciting part about the start of the school year for me is being able to attend school knowing so many faces. I attended Project Pacer, Leadership Retreat, and I got the opportunity to shadow a pacesetter. These events gave me a head start in this new journey to meet new people and begin to make USCA feel like my new home.”  Rice emphasized that the Class of 2030 shows USCA’s momentum is continuing to build.  “Students are choosing us because they want personal attention and a clear path to career success. A larger class means more energy on campus and more students who will go on to represent USCA well after they graduate.”  The Class of 2030 also reflects a range of backgrounds, interests, and experiences, with students arriving from across the country and around the world.  Among the highlights of this year’s freshman class:  17 states are represented among the freshman class.  15 nationalities are represented.  89% of students are from South Carolina.  32 students speak at least two languages.  The top three majors are Nursing, Mechanical Engineering and Biology.  33 students entered USCA undecided on their major.  Madison is the most popular first name among female students, with nine students sharing the name.  William is the most popular first name among male students, with six students sharing the name. 

Students, alumni, faculty, staff and members of the community to kick off the new academic year for USCA’s Downtown Takeover from 5-9 p.m. Aug. 22 in The Alley on Newberry St.  In partnership with the Aiken Development Downtown Association (ADDA), the free, family-friendly celebration will once again transform downtown into a showcase of Pacer pride, featuring live entertainment by Velvet City Sound, activities, games, local food and beverages, and opportunities for the community to connect with the university.   “We are excited to welcome the USCA Downtown Takeover back to Downtown Aiken,”  EmmaLee Sams, executive director of ADDA said. “This event is a wonderful reflection of our strong partnership with the university and provides an opportunity to bring students, faculty, staff and community members together in the heart of our city.”   Now in its second year, Downtown Takeover builds on the momentum of last year's inaugural event, which celebrated the official launch of USCA's rebrand. The event welcomed hundreds of attendees from across the Central Savannah River Area.   “The Downtown Takeover brings energy and excitement to downtown while supporting our local businesses and strengthening the connection between USCA, Downtown Aiken, and the greater community,” Sams said.   This year's celebration will also honor several significant university milestones. Founded in 1961 as Aiken College, a two-year branch of the University of South Carolina, USCA will celebrate 65 years of providing transformative educational opportunities to the region. Since welcoming its first students, the university has grown into a nationally recognized comprehensive university serving thousands of students while remaining committed to academic excellence, community engagement and student success.   In addition to the university's 65th anniversary, Downtown Takeover will recognize two other anniversaries:   The 40th anniversary of the Cultural Series, which has brought nationally and internationally acclaimed performers, artists and speakers to the Aiken community since 1986.   The 50th anniversary of the Gregg-Graniteville Library, a cornerstone of academic life on campus that has supported generations of students, faculty and researchers since opening in 1976.   Kicks 99 will also be present with a guitar pull stop from 5-7 p.m. It’s one of the CSRA's most anticipated annual country music events. Hosted by KICKS 99, it brings together some of country music's biggest artists for a unique acoustic performance.  The event will be co-hosted by Paul Crook, director of the Etherredge Center, and Cliff Bennett, host of The Morning Mix and a 1995 USCA graduate with a Bachelor of Fine Arts.