Prof. Michael C. Paranal created GEMS in order to provide Marshall and Leventhal students the opportunity and guidance to develop the necessary skills to craft their own careers and become leaders and contributors in the community. As a USC alum himself, Prof. Paranal credits the generosity of his mentors and the USC community for his success in law, politics and business. He believes that the path to success is paved with people and GEMS is a unique program that guides young enterprising Trojans to grow into citizens who move the school and the community forward.

George Touma is the Director of Development for the USC Marshall School of Business and the USC Leventhal School of Accounting supporting alumni, family and friends to fulfill their philanthropic investments. George’s passion for scholarships and student support has led him to also serve as the Co-Chair of the campuswide USC Scholarships Council since 2021. He is dedicated to achieving President Folt’s Affordability Initiative to support all Trojans achieve their academic and career ambitions. George is the lead development liaison for Leventhal committed to expand the education and field of accounting. George enjoys bringing industry leaders to the classroom and participate in academic programs, like class projects and experiential learning experiences – especially the GEMS program. He is a native of Los Angeles, and has worked in higher education advancement for over a decade. He joined USC in Fall 2019 and has been Fighting On ever since.