Introducing Trojan Spotlight, USC’s Staff Recognition Program designed to celebrate staff contributions and build a culture of appreciation
In support of fostering a culture of appreciation and advancing our Unifying Values, Trojan Spotlight – USC’s updated Staff Recognition Program that includes reimagined staff service awards – launched on April 21, 2026.
The platform provides staff access to a centralized recognition hub that brings together formal service milestone awards and day-to-day appreciation in one digital platform. This approach makes it easier than ever for employees to celebrate their colleagues’ achievements, express gratitude, and stay connected to a culture of appreciation.
Trojan Spotlight enables staff to:
- Receive staff service awards: Honoring years of dedication to USC, full-time, benefits-eligible staff members receive a digital memory book at their five-year work anniversary and points redeemable for a gift every five years thereafter.
- Recognize others: A live Recognition Feed allows colleagues to publicly share appreciation, complemented by themed recognition campaigns that reinforce consistent and meaningful recognition practices.
- Be recognized: Staff are notified if a colleague recognizes them in the live Recognition Feed.
The program’s early impact has been significant. Within the first 30 days of launch, more than 5,800 recognitions were shared via the Trojan Spotlight Recognition Feed, with recognition activity present across nearly 80% of schools and units at the university.
Brought to life by University HR’s Onboarding and Engagement team, working in close partnership with colleagues across the university, Trojan Spotlight reflects USC’s commitment to creating an environment where staff contributions are recognized, valued, and celebrated, strengthening a sense of belonging across the university.
Visit the Trojan Spotlight webpage to learn more and discover how you can support recognition at USC.