Hindu scholar to be USC dean

USC has named a Hindu religious scholar as its dean of religious life. The appointment of Varun Soni, who is also a lawyer, marks the first time that a Hindu has been named the main spiritual leader of an American university, USC officials said. The position involves working with more than 70 student religious groups and providing moral and ethical leadership for the campus, officials said. Soni’s appointment is effective July 1.

-- Rebecca Trounson