USC Interim President Beong-Soo Kim on Free Speech, AI, and Supporting International Students
The U.S. higher education landscape is currently navigating a period of unprecedented uncertainty. From federal research funding cuts to potential restructuring of the Department of Education and rising concerns among international students, universities are operating in turbulent times. At the University of Southern California (USC), interim president Beong-Soo Kim, appointed in July 2025, believes that adherence to core institutional values is crucial for navigating these challenges.
During a recent visit to India, Kim shared insights with The Indian Express on sustaining USC’s long-standing relationships with Indian students, addressing their anxieties, handling layoffs, integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) in classrooms, and maintaining an environment that encourages robust discussions—even on difficult topics.
Resilience Amid Federal Research Volatility
Kim acknowledges that federal research cuts, such as those proposed by the Trump administration, create volatility for U.S. universities. However, he notes that USC has managed to navigate these challenges successfully. Research grants at USC are trending higher than the previous year, even amidst pullbacks in federal funding.
“Higher education has been going through a lot of volatility, but we’ve been continuing to submit applications and diversify our funding sources,” Kim explains. USC receives research support not just from federal agencies like NIH, NSF, and the Department of Defense, but also from private foundations, state governments, and corporations. Research areas such as Alzheimer’s studies and trustworthy AI continue to attract substantial funding, allowing USC to maintain its momentum despite external uncertainty.
Turning Challenges into Opportunities
Kim believes that challenges present opportunities for growth. One example is fostering a culture of open dialogue on campus. Criticism has sometimes arisen that U.S. universities, including USC, are not always tolerant of diverse viewpoints, particularly conservative perspectives. To address this, Kim initiated the Open Dialogue Project, led by researcher Neeraj Sood, aimed at creating a culture where all viewpoints are not only tolerated but embraced.
Additionally, USC is exploring ways to make research more efficient and aligned with societal needs, collaborating closely with private industry to benefit students and communities while maintaining academic rigor.
Supporting International Students Amid Policy Uncertainty
International students, especially those from India, form a vital part of USC’s community. Despite uncertainty surrounding visas and post-graduation opportunities, Kim reassures students and parents that USC continues to maintain strong support systems.
“Our international student enrollment is down only about three percent,” Kim notes, emphasizing USC’s global brand and robust alumni network. His personal connection—his parents were international students from Korea—reinforces his commitment to sustaining the opportunities that international students have historically found in the U.S.
Kim encourages prospective students to apply despite uncertainties, highlighting USC’s integration of liberal and professional education and its focus on workforce readiness in an era shaped by AI and technological change.
Addressing Affordability and Workforce Changes
Affordability remains a concern, particularly with the rupee-dollar exchange rate affecting Indian students. While USC is not the least expensive university, Kim emphasizes the value it offers through innovative curricula and career preparation.
To manage costs, USC recently undertook strategic layoffs, affecting approximately 1,000 individuals or three percent of its workforce, similar to private sector practices. These decisions, though difficult, were made to strengthen USC’s operating model, allowing reinvestment in research, AI initiatives, and student experience.
Integrating AI in Classrooms Responsibly
The rise of AI in education presents both opportunities and challenges. USC has established an AI Strategy Committee, led by the dean of the business school, to guide the integration of AI in teaching and learning. Kim stresses that banning AI is ineffective; instead, students must develop enduring AI literacy and critical thinking skills.
Faculty are being trained to adapt teaching methods, including rethinking assignments, showing the step-by-step process behind student work, and, in some cases, returning to handwritten exams. The goal is to prepare students to use AI responsibly while preserving fundamental academic skills.
Preserving Critical Thinking in the Age of AI
Kim underscores that AI’s ability to access vast amounts of information means universities must shift focus from memorization to critical thinking. He envisions a renewed emphasis on liberal arts and classics, where students learn to navigate ambiguity—a skill essential for professional and personal success in a world increasingly influenced by AI.
Upholding Free Speech and Campus Values
USC has navigated contentious events, including protests, controversial speakers, and debates over campus policies. Kim emphasizes that lawful protests are welcome, but universities must enforce rules uniformly. Free speech does not mean breaking regulations, such as blocking access, vandalism, or harassment.
USC actively fosters open dialogue, encouraging students to engage with a diversity of opinions. Controversial events, such as talks by polarizing speakers, are seen as opportunities for debate rather than threats to campus safety or values. Kim is committed to ensuring USC remains a place where difficult conversations are encouraged, not avoided.
Lessons from USC’s Past Challenges
Kim’s tenure as general counsel during difficult periods, including the aftermath of the Varsity Blues scandal, reinforced his commitment to institutional accountability. “There’s nothing more important than doing the right thing,” he asserts. Legacy issues have been addressed, allowing the university to focus on innovation, research, and reinforcing its core values.
Looking Ahead: Collaboration and Innovation
Kim is optimistic about USC’s future, emphasizing collaborations with premier institutions in India, including IITs, BITS, and IISc, as well as partnerships with organizations like Reliance Foundation Hospital. His vision includes ensuring the USC education remains unparalleled in value, promoting innovation in AI and medical research, and upholding ethical and moral standards.
Conclusion
Under Beong-Soo Kim’s leadership, USC is navigating federal uncertainties, international student anxieties, workforce adjustments, and the challenges of AI in education with a clear focus on core values. By fostering open dialogue, supporting global students, and embracing technological change responsibly, USC aims to remain a global leader in higher education. Lawful protests, academic freedom, and critical thinking are central to the university’s mission, demonstrating that a balance of rules, ethics, and innovation can sustain excellence even during turbulent times.
