Culture Award

Bestowed to employees who exemplify one or more of USC’s six unifying culture values in a consistent or exceptional manner. Nominate Here

What are Culture Awards?

Culture Awards are bestowed to employees who exemplify one or more of USC’s six unifying culture values consistently or exceptionally. Because our culture is a shared commitment, it is important to recognize employees for doing their part to contribute to our culture journey. You are a living example when you practice the elements of the GOLD standard and live out our unifying values.

This award is peer-nominated, and ten employees will be randomly selected monthly. All nominees will receive a copy of their nomination story. Awardees will receive a $50* one-time recognition on their paycheck, a commemorative certificate, custom lanyard, recognition in all EXPERIENCE Awards communications/platforms, and an invitation to our annual EXPERIENCE Awards Celebration.

*All monetary awards are reported on the recipient’s payroll income statement as a taxable fringe benefit and are subject to income tax withholdings.

Culture Value: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Tommy observed that a student who frequently visits the dining hall at the opening was struggling to find space to roll their wheelchair to a table because there are chairs on all sides. Tommy chatted with the student to find out what table they preferred, permanently removed a chair, and explained why he did it to his co-workers to make sure the student always has a place when they arrive in the morning.

Culture Value: Open Communication

Traveler, who regularly reads his USC email, saw an important email about street closures due to the Rams Super Bowl Parade. Traveler shared the information with his co-workers to make sure they knew how to get to campus the next day and avoid the traffic.

Culture Value: Integrity and Well-Being

Last week, Hecuba observed a student get up in a rush and leave the study room she was cleaning. He continued cleaning but kept a watchful eye over the student’s laptop and personal belongings. When the student returned, she was visibly upset. Traveler let her know that he watched her items and asked if he could help in any way. She had just learned that her grandmother had passed away and was in shock. Traveler went to his manager and returned with the telephone number for the counselors at the health center.

How are Culture Awards evaluated?

While Culture Awards are randomly selected, the nomination form must be completed in its entirety. Evidence of the nominee’s active practice of the unifying values must be articulated.