Happy Earth Month! Hopefully that puts a little spring (ahem) in your step.

In this issue, learn about a class that teaches science with food, meet the Condé Nast CEO delivering this year’s USC Dornsife commencement address, find out how USC kicked off Armenian History Month, and discover how L.A. trees grab more CO₂ from the air than we thought. 

Trees in central Los Angeles are pulling far more carbon dioxide out of the air than expected, according to a new study from USC Dornsife and Public Exchange.

Why it matters: Knowing how much CO₂ trees absorb helps the city target where to plant more — and offers a model for smarter planning nationwide.

What’s new: Researchers found trees in L.A. absorbed up to 60% of fossil fuel-generated CO₂ during daytime hours in spring and summer.

How they did it: Researchers developed the Carbon Census Array — 12 high-resolution air quality sensors — to track CO₂ in real time, offering more precise, localized data than previous models.

Yes, but: Trees help absorb CO₂, but they aren’t the complete solution. The city also needs clean energy and transit upgrades.

What’s next: The team has added more sensors east of downtown L.A. and into Santa Monica to expand monitoring.

Roger Lynch, CEO of Condé Nast — the global media company behind Vogue, Vanity Fair, The New Yorker and more — will return to his alma mater to deliver the 2025 commencement address. A physics alumnus, Lynch went from newspaper delivery boy to leading major media companies including Pandora and Emmy-winning Sling TV. He also serves on the USC Dornsife Board of Councilors and received a USC Alumni Merit Award in 2023. (Bonus: He shreds  lead guitar in an all-CEO band.)

The second annual Armenian History Month opening ceremony at USC celebrated Armenian culture, history and contributions.

Why it matters: Los Angeles is home to over 200,000 Armenians, the largest concentration outside of Armenia, with cultural contributions shaping the city and beyond.

The big picture: The L.A. County Board of Supervisors declared April Armenian History Month in 2022.

This year’s opening ceremony featured remarks from USC President Carol Folt and former L.A. City Council President Paul Krekorian.

Go Deeper: USC’s Armenian History Month continues with a science and technology conference, a game night and an Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day Candlelight Vigil.

This science course for non-majors makes biology more approachable and less daunting, says Grayson Jaggers, associate professor (teaching) of biological sciences. In addition to lectures, students experiment with various ingredients and techniques in weekly labs.

A reminder to our students: While grades are important, they don’t define you. Watch this video for tips on coping with disappointing grades or feedback.

And if you’d like more support, make an appointment with one of USC Dornsife’s embedded counselors, or another therapist at USC Student Health, by visiting MySHR or calling (213) 740-9355 (WELL).

We’re just a few weeks away from the big day! Ceremony tickets will arrive in your USC Ticket Account on Wednesday, April 23. Need extra tickets? You can request them by completing the Additional Ticket Request Form beginning April 28. For details, visit commencement.usc.edu/ticketing-faq/. Plan ahead by reading the Coliseum’s Clear Bag Policy and reviewing our FAQ page for more information. We look forward to celebrating with you!

USC President Carol Folt’s Health Sciences 3.0 “moonshot” initiative aims to align the university’s medical system and health science schools to foster interdisciplinary collaboration, leveraging advancements in artificial intelligence and digital health to develop innovative, affordable care models for surrounding communities.

USC scientists are using stem cells to regenerate damaged tissues and develop treatments for diseases at the cellular level. USC Stem Cell unites over 100 researchers working on therapies like 3D-printed scaffolds to repair bone, restoring hearing, regenerating heart tissue and repairing cartilage. Their goal is to translate stem cell science into real-world medical treatments.

For other fascinating stories that spotlight the people and ideas shaping USC, check out Trojan Family Magazine.

Pitch your startup idea, collaborate with peers and build a business in a weekend with guidance from experienced mentors.

Kickstart your science career at this event exclusive to graduate students, featuring a poster competition (with cash prizes!), networking with company representatives, and a Q&A with industry leaders. 

Build a self-care kit, connect with campus resources and learn how to safely step in to support others and strengthen community care.

Want to get some practice in before your next big interview? Students have free access to Big Interview, a powerful AI-enhanced tool that gives you 24/7 access to interactive interview practice tailored specifically to your industry, job and experience level.