International Women’s Day, observed annually on March 8, celebrates the achievements of women while recognizing the ongoing work toward gender equality. Across Canada and around the world, the day encourages reflection, celebration and continued progress toward more inclusive communities.
At UBC Okanagan’s Faculty of Applied Science, School of Engineering, women contribute to the strength of the community in many ways—from research and teaching to student support and administration. This year, the school is recognizing the contributions of the Administration Team, whose work helps support the day-to-day operations that keep the school moving forward.
Working across a variety of roles, the Administration Team provides coordination and support for faculty, students and leadership. While much of this work happens behind the scenes, it plays an important role in helping the school’s academic and administrative initiatives run smoothly.
Women of Impact in Canada. Government of Canada.
The Government of Canada’s Women of Impact in Canada gallery highlight the lasting impact women continue to make across science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
To mark International Women’s Day, members of the Administration Team were invited to share reflections on what the day means to them.
One-word responses from members of the School of Engineering Administration Team.
When asked to describe International Women’s Day in one word, responses included connection, solidarity, appreciation, empowerment, inspiration and celebration. Words used to describe the Administration Team included supportive, evolving, partnership, resilient and adaptive, reflecting the collaborative nature of the group.
For Jenny Cooper, Staff and Faculty Coordinator, International Women’s Day is closely tied to the next generation of women leaders.
“My daughter, Mila, continues to inspire me as she grows into a thoughtful, strong young woman pursuing political science and communications at the University of Ottawa,” she says. “Seeing her step confidently into her independence reinforces why creating supportive and equitable environments matters so much.”
Support and mentorship within the workplace were also highlighted as important parts of the team’s culture.
“I’m so grateful for Brenda Janzen,” shared Nikki Olson, noting that her colleague is “a great source of support, humour and kindness to everyone.”
Members of the team also reflected on the ways their work contributes to building inclusive environments within engineering.
“In my role, I support fair and structured recruitment processes that help increase representation and advancement opportunities for women in engineering and leadership spaces,” says Cooper.
For Gadia Braga, Finance Support Services Assistant, respect and kindness are central to supporting the community around her.
“I strongly believe in treating everyone we encounter with respect and showing kindness and friendliness to all those around us,” she says. “Being part of the Administration Team is an honour, and it’s rewarding to help support such a strong community within the School of Engineering.”
Through their collaboration and dedication, the Administration Team within the Faculty of Applied Science, School of Engineering plays an important role in supporting the students, faculty and initiatives that shape the school’s vibrant community.
As the School of Engineering marks International Women’s Day, the contributions of the Administration Team highlight the collaboration, care and commitment that help strengthen the school each day. The School also recognizes the important support of colleagues across teams who contribute to this work, including members of the Finance team such as Dominika Wesolowski (Senior Finance Manager), Jamie Rose and Liliana Renteria Martinez (Research Finance).
Members of the School of Engineering Administration Team include:
- Gadia Braga, Finance Support Services Assistant
- Jenny Cooper, Staff and Faculty Coordinator
- Rhonda Hay, Faculty and Staff Coordinator
- Jill Heinrichs, Administration and Project Manager
- Brenda Janzen, Support Services Assistant
- Mareike (Mimi) Miller, Manager, Administration
- Nikki Olson, Finance and Admin Support
- Judy Strykiwsky, TA Program Coordinator
- Emily Zhang, Undergraduate Lab Lead
An honourable mention is also extended to Jake Guo for his ongoing support of the Administration Team and the many ways he contributes to the work of the School of Engineering.