USC is laying off over 900 employees, facing a significant operating deficit exceeding $200 million. This move follows federal funding cuts and potential enrollment shifts. The university is implementing stricter financial controls and streamlining operations to achieve stability and avoid further job losses in 2025, aiming to strengthen its long-term mission.
Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani has appointed a transition team led by experienced women, including former Deputy Mayor Maria Torres-Springer and FTC Chair Lina Khan. This group, with deep expertise in finance, housing, and social services, signals a pragmatic approach to governance. However, key areas like education and public safety remain unaddressed in the initial appointments, leaving room for future developments.
Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, in his 2010 Princeton address, urged graduates to prioritise choices over innate talents. He highlighted that while cleverness is a gift, kindness is a deliberate choice. Bezos emphasised that opportunities require courageous action, and a life's meaning is ultimately shaped by the decisions made, not just abilities possessed.
The California Supreme Court has upheld a ruling requiring the University of California (UC) to reconsider its policy banning students without legal US status from campus jobs. The court declined to review UC’s appeal, leaving intact an earlier decision calling the policy discriminatory. UC officials warned the move poses legal risks, while supporters said it opens opportunities for undocumented students. The university must now re-evaluate the policy under state law while managing federal funding concerns.
Harvard University is reviewing its grading system due to a significant rise in A grades, with 60% of undergraduates now receiving top marks. An internal report highlights concerns that the current system fails to differentiate academic performance effectively. Faculty are exploring options like an A+ grade and median grade reporting to address these issues.
Memphis-Shelby County Schools reports new outreach efforts are beginning to reduce chronic absenteeism, a problem that has worsened since 2017. The district has invested in attendance liaisons and home visits, which have helped re-enroll students and improve attendance in some areas. Plans are also underway to expand bus services to address transportation barriers.