I am delighted to welcome our students, faculty, and staff to another exciting academic year. I would like to extend a special welcome to Cohort 9, the Academy’s largest cohort yet. As with every Academy cohort, this group is exceptionally talented and represents a broad range of backgrounds, skills, knowledge, and perspectives. 

 As the fall semester approaches, I would like to share new developments that are underway. Faculty and staff have been working diligently to make significant upgrades to enhance student learning experiences for this fall and in years to come. These changes are inspired by the many conversations we have had with Academy students and come after careful consideration with leadership, faculty, and staff. 

First, I am pleased to share that the Academy has been approved for substantial growth by the USC administration which demonstrates great faith in the Academy’s mission, capabilities and potential for impact; as well as recognition of the increasing market demand for the Academy’s degrees. 

Watch the Iovine and Young Academy's ceremony installing the new dean, Thanassis Rikakis, including an introduction from USC President Carol Folt

Iovine and Young Academy Dean's Installation

Dr. Thanassis Rikakis is the second dean of the USC Iovine and Young Academy for Arts, Technology and the Business of Innovation. His tenure began on August 23, 2021.

The Dean

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