Thank you to everyone who took part in our inaugural worldwide USC Alumni Networking Week – Trojan Connects on February 3 – 6, 2025! This alumni-led program focused on:
Networking with each other based upon professional interests
Connecting alumni with each other where they live
Mentoring and career support for alumni
Special thanks to all of our alumni organizers who offered in-person and virtual events to help Trojans around the world build their networks and learn from one another.
Keep up with the Trojan Family
Be sure to follow @USCAlumni on social media and join the conversation using #USCAlumni!
Admission for the below virtual events is free! For full details, visit each event’s registration page.
Teachers Take on Tech
Learn how AI is helping school systems address the most pressing challenges in K-12 today—from teacher retention, to chronic absenteeism, to graduation and career readiness. Get inspired by fellow Trojan Educator experiences and successes, leaving you motivated to lead your schools into the future.
Leveraging Emotional Intelligence for Career Success
This virtual meet-up will feature a keynote presentation by Dr. Marya Wright, followed by breakout networking sessions. Whether you’re looking to advance in your career or connect with fellow Trojans, this event is the perfect opportunity to tap into the power of the Trojan network.
Discovering and Applying Your Core Values for Career Success
Following the hands-on workshop, guests will have an opportunity to network with other attendees in breakout rooms for further discussion on how values are applied in professional lives.
Alumna Yumi Wilson ’90 will show you how AI can be your secret weapon for LinkedIn success. Discover strategies to optimize your profile, amplify your professional narrative, and connect with industry leaders—all using free, powerful AI tools that give you an immediate edge. Walk away with practical techniques to boost your personal brand, attract the right connections, and open doors to exciting career opportunities.
What is Sustainability? Join us to learn from corporate and non profit sustainability leaders how you can make a meaningful difference. Gain valuable knowledge, tools, and career resources to give insight into how you can support a sustainable future.
Are you ready to turn your innovative ideas into successful ventures? Or looking to enhance your knowledge of investing fundamentals?
The USC Alumni Entrepreneurs Network and the USC Marshall School of Business invite you to join our online fireside chat and learn essential insights and strategies from an investment professional. We’ll discuss a wide range of topics, from angel syndicates to investment strategies and more.
Please join the Trojan Entertainment Network as we host an exciting conversation around careers in new media. We will have panelists across various fields including XR, AI, content creation/digital, the audio space, and a moderator who will facilitate this conversation.
Admission | $25, price will increase to $30 at the door Tickets include light appetizers and drinks.
Leverage LinkedIn and Networking Strategies to Secure Your Dream Job
Discover how to turn connections into opportunities with proven LinkedIn strategies and effective networking techniques. This seminar will equip you with the tools to elevate your personal brand, expand your professional network, and land the job you’ve always wanted.
Admission | $50, price will increase to $60 at the door Includes light appetizers and one drink
Considering a new job or career in a different industry? Hear from our panel of speakers who’ve done just that, and their tips for others who are also at these crossroads.
Admission | $25, price will increase to $40 at the door Includes light appetizers and non-alcoholic drinks
USC Young Alumni Council invites you back to campus, and virtually, for a night of mixing, mingling, and learning from Trojans who have been featured on the Forbes 30 Under 30 list. Attendees will hear from panelists working in a variety of industries and have the opportunity to expand their Trojan network
Admission: In-Person | $30 Includes admission for one, light refreshments, and in-person networking. Virtual | $10 Includes virtual access to listen to panel Registration closes on 2/3/2025 at 11:59 p.m. PT.
Join us on February 4 for Trojan Connects at The Ordinarie in Long Beach! Build your USC network with fellow alumni in a vibrant setting—don’t miss this opportunity to make meaningful connections!
This Trojan Connects event is your chance to experience the power of the USC alumni network in a relaxed coastal atmosphere. Whether you’re seeking professional insights, career growth, or simply the camaraderie of fellow Trojans, this evening will bring alumni from across generations together in Long Beach. The evening promises engaging conversations, new connections, and opportunities to share stories and advice.
Admission | $30, price will increase to $40 at the door Includes heavy appetizers. Beverages available for purchase.
Get to know Alumni in your area while enjoying a tasting of four varieties of organic wine by Coquelicot Estate Vineyard, an alumni owned brand. The Mulholland will be welcoming USC alumni for this exclusive Wednesday evening activity and will be serving delicious appetizers paired with the wines.
Admission | $75 Includes light appetizers and wine tasting. Registration closes on 2/2/2025 at 11:59 p.m. PT.
California – Southern – Orange County and San Diego
FightOn to Compliance – 2025 California Employment Law Updates
Have you reviewed California’s most recent employment law updates? Join our Conquest of California Employment Law regulations, and stay to socialize and network with fellow San Diego Alumni.
Please join us for an employment law update presentation hosted by USC Alumni specializing in employment law. This early in the year, it is the perfect time to learn what new developments businesses, leaders, and alumni should be aware of. This event is virtual and in person. Alumni attending in-person are invited to stay after the presentation to enjoy a social networking hour.
Admission | $35, price will increase to $40 at the door Tickets include heavy appetizers and soft drinks.
Calling all Trojans in the Denver, CO area! Join us on February 4 for a night of mingling. Come meet and network with fellow Trojans at Social Capital in Arvada.
Admission | $35 Tickets include admission and one drink ticket for beer or wine. Additional beverages available for purchase.
As the winter chill sets in, warm up with meaningful conversations and purposeful connections! Join us for an evening of small group discussions designed to help you connect with fellow Trojans and take simple next steps with clarity and purpose.
What to Expect
Explore different perspectives and ideas for personal and professional growth
Conversational Prompts: Participate in guided conversations around wellness, resilience, and performance
Practical Takeaways: Leave with one key lesson, one actionable step, and an accountability connection to encourage follow-through.
Admission | $20 Tickets include light refreshments and non-alcoholic drinks. Registration closes on 2/2/2025 at 11:59 p.m. PT. **Please note, walk-ins will not be available for this event so please register in advance!**
Chicago Team Organizers Michelle Carl Rizal (primary contact), Jana Sinn, Javin D’Souza, Meredith Dorneker, Sam Cachila-Pisharodi, Wes Thornburgh
Join fellow Dallas area Trojans for an evening of conversation and connection. No speakers – this evening is all about YOU getting to know other alumni and making meaningful connections.
Admission: $20 Includes food and non-alcoholic drinks. Registration closes on 1/30/25 at 11:59 PM PT.
Network and meet fellow DMV Trojan Alums at the Capital Campus.The USC Capital Campus along with USC Washington DC Alumni will be hosting and facilitating a networking mixer.
Admission: $20 Includes food and non-alcoholic drinks. Registration closes on 1/31/25 at 11:59 PM PT.
Join us on Zoom for this virtual mixer where you’ll have the chance to meet fellow USC alumni living in Egypt and brainstorm ideas on how to collaborate in the future for in-person events.
Admission | Free Registration is required. Guests will receive a Zoom link one day prior to the event. Registration closes on 2/3/2025 at 11:59 p.m. PT
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can become an event organizer?
All degreed alumni who agree to uphold Trojan Family values and the university’s code of conduct are eligible to organize a Trojan Connect. Organizers must have either participated in one of the informational sessions or watched the recording as well. While one person will be the primary contact for the event, you are welcome to partner with a Board/Committee you’re a part of or join forces with other volunteers in your area.
What are the event requirements?
All events must take place between February 3-6, 2025. In-person event locations must hold at least 30 participants.
Can I submit a virtual event?
Yes! Trojan Connects can be held virtually. They must still take place between February 3-6, 2025. However, you have the freedom to set you day, time, and the platform that best works for you. If you need assistance creating a Zoom, a staff member will provide a link.
Where can events take place?
Trojan Connects that are in-person can be held in either domestic or international locations. Event organizers are encouraged to checkout local restaurants, explore potential spaces at your office, or look into coworking spaces. You may also be able to find Trojan owned businesses in your community to host the event at.
I want to organize a Trojan Connect but I am not sure how to start?
First, you’ll want to make sure to watch the informational session detailing the process from start to finish. After viewing, you’ll determine all of your event details including format, venue, model, etc. before submitted a proposal. Please click here for resources including the recording, info session slides, etc. If you have any additional questions, feel free to reach out to watsonro@usc.edu.
How far in advance do I need to begin planning my event?
All event proposals are due on Friday, October 21, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. PDT. To ensure you have a well thought out proposal with all the necessary information, we advise starting the planning process as soon as possible especially if you need to get quotes from venues.
What are my key responsibilities as an event organizer?
Below is a checklist of tasks before, during, and after the event takes place.
Application Period:
Contact fellow Trojans to team up
Pick a date and time
Determine if your event will be virtual or in-person
Select your event model (i.e. networking activity, panel discussion, etc.)
Find a venue (if applicable) and get a quote and contract. If possible, also ask if they will place a hold for you on the space.
Find speaker and/or mentors (if applicable)
Fill out a budget form
Submit event proposal by October 21, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. PDT
Before the Event
Early November
Send staff headshots, bios, etc. for the organizer(s) and speaker(s) (if applicable)
Confirm speakers and send them a calendar invite (if applicable)
Work with staff to get venue contracts signed and deposits paid
Late November – Early January
Help promote your event via personal outreach
Forward official emails to your network
Post on social media
Late January
Confirm counts with venue
Hold an intro call with speakers to brief them on the event
Assign volunteer team to specific roles if needed (i.e. check-in, photos, speaker management, MC, etc.)
February
Send reminders to speakers and event registrants with event details (two-days prior to event)
During the Event
In-person Programs
Be present at the event
Arrive early to set up the site with décor and signage
Confirm event details with venue and complete any necessary A/V tests
Check-in guests/speakers
Capture photos/videos
*Be sure to get a group photo by the end!
Make closing announcements highlighting upcoming programs and share information that will be included in the follow up (i.e. survey and photos)
Close out with Venue
Virtual Programs:
Sign-on at least 20-minutes early to test technology and adjust platform settings as needed
Meet with other volunteers and/or speakers 15-minutes prior so they can test technology and go over the program timeline
Give 5-minute buffer after the start time to allow guests to sign-on.
Use visuals (i.e. slides)
Take a group photo using screenshot function (if using a Zoom meeting)
Change to gallery mode.
Make closing announcements highlighting upcoming programs and share information that will be included in the follow up (i.e. recording, resources, survey and photos)
After the Event
Within 24-hours
Follow up with staff to share the following:
Attendee List
Reimbursement requests (if applicable) with a photo of the receipt and a screenshot of the charge on your account
Photos from event (to be included in follow up email)
Recording from event (if applicable)
Resources (i.e. slides, worksheets, etc.)
Send thank you notes to fellow volunteers and speakers
Late February
Participate in debrief call to share you experience as an event organizer
How do I publicize my Trojan Connect to USC alumni in my area?
Trojan Connect event organizers will receive social media toolkits along with the official email invites promoting your event. You’re encouraged to forward those emails to your personal/local network via email, reach out via text, and post event graphics on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.
Organizers may also want to do the following:
Post on Facebook within your area’s designated USCAA regional group or class reunion group. For a directory, click here.
If part of a USC Board/Committee, share on their social media
Post event details in the designated FightOnline Community for your region.
