Hi Everyone -  here's what we got this week at the University of South Carolina:

On the docket:

• Celebrate the Class of Fall 2024: University of South Carolina Commencement

• Exciting News: The Moxy Hotel Opens in Downtown Columbia

• Cool Beans: Your Student’s Finals Week Haven (And Your Coffee Stop Too!)

Celebrate the Class of Fall 2024: University of South Carolina Commencement

The University of South Carolina is excited to honor the accomplishments of its Fall 2024 graduates during the Associate's, Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Professional Degree Commencement Ceremony. This special event will occur on Monday, December 16, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. in the Colonial Life Arena. Graduates will walk across the stage to be recognized by name and personally congratulated by their respective deans, with the president of the university presiding over the ceremony. It’s a day to celebrate the hard work, dedication, and achievements of the Class of Fall 2024.

Parents, family members, and friends are encouraged to plan ahead for this joyous occasion. From ticket reservations to accessibility options and parking details, the university provides resources to make attending the ceremony seamless and stress-free. If you can’t attend in person, the event will be live-streamed on the University of South Carolina’s official Facebook page, ensuring loved ones near and far can join in the celebration. Be sure to mark your calendars and prepare to cheer on your graduate as they reach this significant milestone!

Exciting News: The Moxy Hotel Opens in Downtown Columbia

Parents, get ready for an exciting new way to enjoy your visits to Columbia! The Moxy Hotel is set to open this December in the heart of downtown, offering a vibrant and stylish place to stay. Located close to key spots like The Hub & Standard apartments, Hall’s Chophouse, Soda City Market, and more, the hotel provides the perfect central hub to explore the best of Columbia while staying just minutes from campus.

The Moxy brings a modern, playful vibe with amenities designed to make your stay unforgettable. Whether you’re booking for graduation, a big game day, or simply visiting your student, this new hotel offers convenience and comfort in a prime location. With so much to do nearby, including Columbia’s top dining, shopping, and entertainment, your trip will be as enjoyable as it is convenient.

Don’t miss the chance to experience all the buzz of downtown Columbia while staying at the Moxy. Reservations are expected to fill quickly, especially for major events like graduation and football weekends, so be sure to book early. This exciting addition to downtown ensures your visits to Columbia will be as memorable as the moments you share with your student!

Click here to check out the new hotel’s Instagram.

Cool Beans: Your Student’s Finals Week Haven (And Your Coffee Stop Too!)

Parents, as finals week approaches, your student might need a go-to spot for focused study sessions—and Cool Beans is the perfect choice! Located right next to the Horseshoe in downtown Columbia, this independent coffee shop is a campus favorite and just a short walk from anywhere on the University of South Carolina grounds. With cozy seating, a welcoming atmosphere, and extended hours until 9 PM, it’s an ideal place for students to tackle their exams while sipping on expertly brewed coffee or tea.

And it’s not just for students! If you’re ever in Columbia visiting your student, make sure to swing by Cool Beans for a great cup of coffee and a bite to eat. Whether you’re grabbing a breakfast croissant sandwich or indulging in their Mediterranean panini for lunch, the menu will not disappoint. I’m a regular here and can’t recommend it enough—for studying, catching up with friends, or just enjoying the best local coffee in town!

If you’re interested, click here for a link to the menu.