International Women's Day 2024 Feature: Olga Petrik

In the dynamic community of the College of Arts (CoA) at the University of Guelph, Olga Petrik stands as a cornerstone of support and collaboration within the School of English and Theatre Studies (SETS). Over her 13 years in SETS, Olga Petrik has transitioned from graduate program assistant to administrative assistant to the director, bringing a wealth of experience and a deep-rooted commitment to community building. Petrik embodies dedication to celebrating others’ contributions and nurturing an inclusive campus environment. 

A graduate of a double Honours Bachelor of Arts degree in Art History and English Literature, Petrik found her professional home within the CoA almost two decades ago. Collaborating with colleagues and students, Petrik ensures the smooth functioning of SETS and approaches her role with a supportive attitude and a drive for empowering others. While acknowledging the challenges that others, including women, often face, Petrik advocates for open communication and empowerment in the workplace. When discussing her experiences in her role in an interview with the CoA’s Marketing and Communications team, Petrik spoke highly of her colleagues stating, “I look at the other women who are the admins in this College and they are phenomenal. They are so supportive. They’re your cheerleaders, they're your support team, they’re everything.”  

Petrik leads by example, addressing challenges head-on and fostering a culture of respect and support among her colleagues. Her commitment to empathy and kindness was perfectly outlined when she said, “Be the person that you needed at some point in time, [whether that was] last week or 15, 20 years ago”. This year’s theme for International Women’s Day, #InspireInclusion, is personified through Petrik’s kindness, empathy for others, and fond acknowledgement of the contributions of her colleagues.