The Order of Troy
Students who receive the Order of Troy have made notable contributions to their peers within USC Student Life, the USC community, and/or the world at large through exemplary service or active leadership. While these students have pursued academic excellence, they have also devoted extensive time and energy in service outside the classroom and their other commitments.
The Order of the Laurel and the Palm
The highest honor given to undergraduates completing their degrees, the Order of the Laurel and the Palm is awarded to students who display exceptional leadership and service that makes a lasting impact on the university community and/or the world at large. These students embody the university’s values and goals. Less than one percent of undergraduates earning their degrees are selected to receive the Order of the Laurel and the Palm.
The Order of Arête
Arête, taken from the Greek, means virtue or excellence in attaining one’s utmost human potential. Graduate students who have distinguished themselves above their peers through campus or community leadership beyond those required for their programs of study and/or through impactful and exemplary service to the university community or the world at large. These students demonstrate significant depth and scope of responsibility and embody the university’s values and goals. This award represents the highest honor accorded to graduate students upon completion of their academic programs.