Join us as we commemorate five decades of community, scholarship, service and impact — honoring the past and inspiring the future.
About the Celebration
Fifty years of Trojan impact — and a future still being written.
In 1976, a determined group of community members led by Rev. Dr. Thomas Kilgore Jr., founded the USC Black Alumni Association to open doors, build community and make sure no student walks alone at USC. Fifty years later, that promise endures.
This anniversary year celebrates five decades of alumni engagement, scholarship, mentorship, advocacy and community — and the thousands of lives shaped along the way.
Alumni, students, supporters and friends are invited to participate throughout the year, from decade celebrations to USC Homecoming Weekend, the Scholarship Gala and beyond.
Signature Events
The Anniversary Year
August 23, 2026
Welcome Pinning and Affirmation Ceremony
This cherished tradition celebrates the start of a new academic journey and welcomes incoming students and their families.
Friday October 2-Saturday, October 3, 2026
USC Homecoming Weekend and BAA Legends Tailgate
Registration opens in August.
Thursday, October 29-Saturday, November 1, 2026
Trojan Family Weekend
Registration opens in September.
Anniversary Timeline
A Year of Milestones
Anniversary Kickoff
Decade Celebrations
USC Homecoming Weekend
Regional Gatherings
BAA 50th Anniversary Gala
Brazil Experience
Meet the Decade Committees
Led by Every Era
’70s & ’80s BAA Trojans
Co-Chairs
- Renata Elmore ’84
- Patrick Holloway ’85
’90s BAA Trojans
Co-Chairs
- Carol D. Anderson ’93, MACC ’04
- Jevon Phillips ’93, MPW ’96
’00s BAA Trojans
Co-Chairs
- Jennifer Moore MRED ’08
- Rhonda Richard-Smith ’02
’10s BAA Trojans
Co-Chairs
- Dominique Washington ’11
- Barry Wilkins ’14, MPMR ’21
’20s BAA Trojans
Co-Chairs
- Candace House ’24
- Jevon Marco-Walls Torres ’24
Upcoming Decade’s Events
Sunday, August 16, 2026
Dave & Buster’s Summer Mixer Hosted by 2010 Decade Alumni
Celebrate 50 years of USC Black Alumni Association with the alumni from the 2010s decade during the summer mixer at Dave & Buster’s.
50th Anniversary Celebration Leadership
Anniversary Committee Chairs
Terri and Daniel guide the year-long celebration — shaping programming, rallying every decade committee and stewarding the 50 for 50 Campaign so this milestone leaves a lasting legacy for future Trojans.
Terri Holoman ’81
Co-Chair
Daniel Prince ’00, MA ’02
Co-Chair
50th Celebration Committee Members
- James Ward III ’11, BAC Chair-Elect
- Apollo Emeka ’09 MCBS ’17 DPPD ’20, BAC Chair
- Dominique Woods ’06, MD, MPH
- Miki Turner MCG ’18
- Kyle Webb MBA ’16
- iAsia Brown MBV ’23 EDD ’26
- Debbie Pattillo ’84
- Raphael Henderson ’82
- Will Poole ’06
- Ellisen Turner ’97
- Simeon Stewart ’92 MBA ’17
- Reggie Roberts JD ’00
- Kenneth Simril ’88
50 for 50 Campaign
Give Back. Invest Forward.
Help shape the next 50 years of BAA. Support scholarships, student success, alumni engagement and future generations.
Every gift is directed to endowed scholarships, mentorship programming, and student emergency support — meaning your contribution reaches a Trojan directly, this year and for decades to come.
Get Involved
Volunteer Opportunities
Help make this historic celebration unforgettable. There’s a place for every Trojan in this anniversary year.
- Volunteer at anniversary events.
- Become a mentor.
- Serve as an event ambassador.
- Join your Decade Committee.
- Support scholarships.
- Share your BAA story.
Photo & Memory Gallery
Fifty Years in Frames
Stay Connected
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