Ron Mackovich
Ron Mackovich oversees priorities – stories about USC Village, biotech, access and value, among other areas – for USC University Communications. He has a strong background in digital journalism, most recently at KCBS-TV.
Stories by Ron Mackovich:
Thanks to new meters, wasted water will be a thing of the past at USC
To detect leaks and promote sustainability, the university is installing ultrasonic submeters on dozens of older buildings and cooling towers.
Dana Goldman takes on deanship at USC Price School of Public Policy
Long a leader at USC Price, Goldman has served as interim dean since last year. He’ll head the school as rapid change creates pressing demands for public policy research and scholars.
USC reaccredited after inclusive review of university standards, curriculum, quality and culture
The university’s convergent spirit and cultural transformation are commended, along with a commitment to transparency and affordability.
Thanassis Rikakis, educational innovator, named dean of USC Iovine and Young Academy
A classically trained musician known for his transformational leadership and transdisciplinary curriculum, Rikakis will begin conducting the academy on Aug. 23.
When the big chill is too big, a more sustainable substitute cools Galen Center
The massive motors used to cool the arena can take a break now that a smaller “pony chiller” has been installed to cut energy use.
Engineering a future, USC ROTC grad rises to the challenge of pilot training
Sarah Markosky is an aspiring engineer and a pilot, one who isn’t intimidated by entering male-dominated fields.
Army veteran serves as peacemaker in urban combat zones
Many people fear the places Hector Jimenez needs to be. He relies on his battlefield experience — and his studies at USC, where he has earned two graduate degrees — almost every day.
First-gen engineering grad ready to land Air Force career
Despite early setbacks, graduating USC student Giovanni Flores is gaining momentum as he aims for a post-graduation pilot slot.
When Grandpa can’t figure out FaceTime: Students teach tech to connect to older adults
Smartphone support and health advice helped seniors and USC students from seven health-related disciplines get through the pandemic.
South L.A. goes green as backyard gardens and orchards grow
Fresh produce from nearby neighborhoods makes its way across Los Angeles as USC’s Good Neighbors Campaign helps support local growers.
Bina Venkataraman named 2021 USC commencement speaker
A journalist and author whose outlook unites science, compassion and optimism, Venkataraman will look ahead to an age in which courage can prevent catastrophe.
Despite advances in distance learning, homework gap persists among California families
While many K-12 students have adapted to online learning, a USC study finds that some families have had trouble accessing devices or reliable internet connections, especially Hispanics who primarily speak Spanish.
Pandemic pushes California into new age of telehealth and telecommuting
New habits developed during lockdown are likely to continue, a USC study finds, which means less driving to work or medical appointments. That said, access to these opportunities still varies by race and income.
The leaf blowers go quiet at USC, home of the country’s first campus green zone
Complaints sparked a change from noisy landscaping equipment to clean technologies on the University Park Campus, part of a major investment that’s earned the university green accolades.
E-waste isn’t wasted at USC, thanks to partnership that helps the community
An enduring program that reclaims old computers helps students and local families bridge the digital divide while also keeping more than 1 million pounds of used electronics out of landfills.
Top Air Force leader’s message inspires USC military and veteran students
At the university’s annual Veterans and ROTC Gala, retired Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force Kaleth O. Wright breaks down his steps for success.
More than 8,800 offered fall admission to USC, from historically large pool of applicants
Diversity and academic achievement distinguish the newest Trojans, including a record number of first-generation college students.
California surpasses 90% internet connectivity, but low-income households still lack access
Amid the pandemic, a survey from USC and the California Emerging Technology Fund reveals regional and financial inequities that fuel the state’s digital divide.
USC and California Emerging Technology Fund form partnership to close the digital divide
The research partnership will determine just how far California has to go to close critical gaps in internet access, an issue exacerbated by the pandemic.
A shot at equity: USC vaccination site aims to expand access to immunization
As eligibility expands widely, the city opens a COVID-19 vaccination center in University Park, close to underserved South L.A. neighborhoods.
Steven Shapiro named first USC senior vice president for health affairs
The physician-scientist will bridge clinical and research efforts, a collaborative approach designed to improve care.
It’s time to address disparities in internet access, says USC’s Martha Escutia
An East L.A. native, USC’s vice president for state government relations has fought for universal broadband access for two decades. The pandemic has brought renewed attention to the issue.
USC names Samuel Garrison senior vice president of university relations
Garrison will direct a more robust department dedicated to community partnerships, civic leadership and collaboration with local businesses, schools and neighbors.
Bold initiative strengthens partnerships with local diverse businesses
Office of Business Diversity and Economic Opportunity will connect with small businesses owned by minorities, women and veterans.