"USC Controversy: Valedictorian Speech and Commencement Cancellations"

USC has canceled appearances from director Jon M. Chu and other honorees at its commencement following the controversy over the cancellation of valedictorian Asna Tabassum’s speech due to security concerns. The university cited the "highly publicized circumstances" as the reason for releasing outside speakers and honorees from attending the ceremony, and expressed hope to confer honorary degrees at a future event. Tabassum, whose speech was canceled over pro-Palestinian views, criticized the university for not sharing details about security concerns and not offering an alternative method for her participation.