When Cory Tamburrino first received the news that he had been named the Class of 2026 Valedictorian, his reaction was one of characteristic humility. "I was shocked and immediately nervous to give a speech at graduation."

The University of San Diego would like to congratulate all of our wonderful students who are graduating this year. We will be spotlighting students from across campus, sharing their educational journeys leading up to commencement.

The University of San Diego (USD) announced today that longtime supporters Dan and Phyllis Epstein, through the Epstein Family Foundation, have committed $10 million — their largest current gift to the university — to support the new  Epstein Family Military Center. The gift is a challenge match aimed at raising an additional $10 million for the center.

“As I faced the uncertainty of separating from the military, choosing USD made all the difference. I was welcomed into a supportive and inclusive community that immediately felt like home.”

When Briana “Bri” Burton was sketching treehouses in crayon as a child in Charlotte, North Carolina, she couldn't have imagined the path that would eventually lead her to the University of San Diego (USD). But looking back, those childhood drawings were the first signs of an architectural passion that would help guide her journey from military service to academic excellence.

Anne Borrell sat frozen in her chair, fighting back tears as University of San Diego President James T. Harris III, DEd, delivered his orientation speech to first-year and transfer students. The crowded auditorium felt suffocating. Surrounded by teenagers fresh out of high school, the 30-year-old former U.S. Navy corpsman was experiencing a panic attack – one of many that manifested during her transition from military service to civilian life.

On Thursday, May 23, the Jenny Craig Pavilion at the University of San Diego (USD) was filled with pride as 19 Ensigns and 21 Second Lieutenants were commissioned in a momentous ceremony. These new officers, representing the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps, are embarking on their military careers, ready to lead and serve.

Joining the Marine Corps was a chance for Lissette Nichols to challenge herself and see the world beyond Wheeling, her suburban hometown northwest of Chicago.