The University of South Carolina (USC) has announced a significant financial boost to its College of Arts and Sciences, following a generous $75 million gift from alumnus Peter McCausland and his family foundation. The announcement, made on Wednesday, marks a pivotal moment for one of the universitys largest and oldest colleges, setting in motion plans to enhance educational opportunities for its students.

Peter McCausland, a 1971 graduate of USC who later founded a successful industrial chemical company, expressed his deep commitment to the university through this substantial contribution. He highlighted the importance of fostering an environment where students can thrive academically and professionally. Through this gift, I hope to continue the legacy of excellence of the faculty in the College of Arts and Sciences, while expanding the opportunities for students majoring in arts and sciences to leave USC with the curiosity and critical thinking skills to help them pursue their dreams, McCausland stated.

The donation will primarily be utilized to expand career development resources for students. A significant highlight of this initiative is the provision for internship stipends, which will benefit up to 150 students annually. This financial support aims to enable students to gain valuable real-world experience without the burden of financial constraints during their internships.

In addition to career-focused initiatives, the funding will also support the universitys rapidly growing neuroscience major. This reflects a broader trend in higher education where interdisciplinary studies are increasingly becoming a focal point. Furthermore, the funds will bolster the McCausland Faculty Fellowship, a program established in 2014 to honor faculty members who excel in their teaching and research efforts. This initiative underscores the importance of recognizing and investing in high-quality teaching, which is vital for student success.

USC President Michael Amiridis lauded the significance of the gift, stating, This gift from Peter and Bonnie and the McCausland Foundation marks a new beginning for our universitys oldest and largest college. The broad reach of this investment in the arts, humanities, and sciences will expand opportunities for USC students and impact the state of South Carolina for generations to come. This sentiment echoes the sentiment of many at the university who view this as a transformative opportunity to elevate the educational experience within the College of Arts and Sciences.

In recognition of the McCausland family's generosity, the College of Arts and Sciences will be renamed the McCausland College of Arts and Sciences. This honor not only acknowledges the financial support but also serves as a testament to the family's long-term commitment to enriching the educational landscape at USC.