News
USF and The Florida Orchestra unite to advance music education and community connection
The USF College of Design, Art & Performance and The Florida Orchestra have formed a groundbreaking new partnership to elevate music education, inspire artistic expression and strengthen community engagement.
November 7, 2025Music
From Thesis to Oscars® Shortlist: Xindi Zhang’s AI-Driven Film Wins the Golden Award
When Xindi Zhang, Acting Assistant Professor in the College of Design, Art & Performance's School of Art & Art History at the University of South Florida (USF), set out to create her thesis film The Song of Drifters, she wanted to explore how memory, self-discovery, and belonging could be expressed through both human emotion and artificial intelligence. The film recently advanced to the Oscars® shortlist in the Alternative/Experiential category, following Zhang’s Golden Award win at the 2025 Student Academy Awards®, one of the most prestigious honors for emerging filmmakers worldwide.
November 6, 2025Art & Art History, Faculty
Green and gold in motion: Herd of Thunder ignited Tampa Bay Buccaneers halftime show
The University of South Florida’s Herd of Thunder marching band will bring green and gold to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers halftime show this Sunday, Oct. 12. The performance will feature 348 student musicians and field formations at Raymond James Stadium as they perform an energetic Motown-inspired musical arrangement that celebrates rhythm, unity and school pride. For many band members, this is the second year in a row to play during a Bucs game. It’s one of the university’s many ties to the NFL team, which hosts a number of fellowship and mentoring opportunities for USF students.
October 13, 2025Music
Student, Faculty, Alumni, and Staff News
Explore the latest updates and stories concerning the activities, endeavors, and accomplishments of our students, faculty, alumni, and staff.