The USC Thornton School of Music Monday announced that alumna Nina Shekhar and music industry executive Sylvia Rhone will serve as speakers at its commencement ceremony next month.
The ceremony is scheduled for 9 a.m. May 15 at the Epstein Family Plaza on the USC University Park campus, where Shekhar will receive the Outstanding Alumni Award and Rhone will be honored with the school’s inaugural Distinguished Visionary Leadership Award, according to university officials.
Shekhar — a composer, producer and multimedia artist — has had her work performed by major orchestras and institutions including the New York Philharmonic, Los Angeles Philharmonic and Carnegie Hall. A graduate of USC’s composition program, she represents a new generation of artists working across multiple disciplines, officials said.
“I’m deeply honored to return to Thornton for this moment. My time there shaped both my artistic voice and values as a human being, guiding me to create honestly and compassionately,” Shekhar said in a statement.
Rhone, a longtime music executive, most recently served as chairwoman and CEO of Epic Records and has held senior leadership roles across all three major record companies. She is also a recipient of a 2026 Grammy Trustee Award.
“I’m deeply grateful to USC Thornton for this recognition and to be part of such a meaningful commencement moment,” Rhone said. “Music connects timeless artistry with forward-thinking innovation, and I look forward to encouraging graduates to lead with vision, act with purpose, and build creative paths that elevate their communities.”
Jason King, dean of the USC Thornton School of Music, said the two honorees reflect both the artistic and business sides of the music world.
“Nina Shekhar represents the fearless artistic voice we strive to cultivate in our students: one that pushes boundaries and speaks with urgency and individuality,” King said. “Sylvia Rhone represents the pinnacle of vision, influence, and leadership in the global music business. She’s an absolute force and a true icon.”