Meet Anna Olivarez, a UTRGV Unsung Hero
Text by Priscilla Ramirez, student staff writer
Photos by Silver Salas, student staff photographer:
https://utrgv-umc.photoshelter.com/galleries/C0000k9t5gy9BMEc/G0000lWNV3C4GVdk/20190220-Faculty-Anna-Olivarez-EC-SS
Password: Olivarez (case sensitive)
In her work cubicle on the third floor of the UTRGV School of Medicine on the Edinburg Campus, Anna Olivarez sets about making each day a better one for her co-workers.
Whether they’re revitalized by the mini forest of plants that line her work station, or made aware of which national holiday – National Ice Cream Day, National Pet Day, etc. – is on the calendar, there is rarely a dull moment with Olivarez around.
“I love events,” she said. “Getting people to participate is the best part, because it brings us closer.”
She has made this office a second home, of sorts, and photos of co-workers dressed in different themed costumes line her wall, pinned up and titled to fit the space. Seasonal decorations personalize her space, too, a contrast to the efficient planner and calendars that organize her daily administrative duties.
Her enthusiasm to bring cheer to her co-workers is rooted in the type of care she gives her own family. Delicately folded origami patterns attached to handwritten letters keep her close to her own relatives, and Olivarez translates those sentiments into her day-to-day work.
“I don’t need a thank you,’ she says with her customary upbeat outlook. “The expression of happiness is enough for me.”
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT UTRGV?
My current role at UTRGV is administrative associate for Interprofessional Education and the Institute for Bioethics in the School of Medicine. Previously, I worked as an administrative assistant for the Cooperative Pharmacy program for 11 years.
HOW LONG HAVE YOU WORKED HERE?
I have been part of UTPA/UTRGV since December 2006 for a total of 12 years.
DESCRIBE YOUR AVERAGE DAY
My workday starts between 7 and 7:15 a.m. I start by reviewing and answering emails and reviewing my calendar for deadlines for the day or week, depending on the circumstances. This usually begins the day’s work. Along with that, I budget reconciliations, PowerPoint presentations and prepare meeting minutes and agendas in preparation for Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME) accreditation for the School of Medicine. I coordinate travel arrangements, process conference and room reservations, maintain departmental files, inventory and order supplies, and assist staff with questions from other departments, as needed. Working with two very interesting programs – the Interprofessional Education Program and the Institute for Bioethics and Social Justice – keeps me on my toes, but I still have time to round up faculty and staff for “National Wear Red Day” or a “Celebrating Self-Love, Eat Healthy” activity to engage my peers.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF YOUR JOB?
The satisfaction of organizing events such as “Staff Wear Pink” for Breast Cancer Awareness, or the Tacky Sweater Party involving personnel. Those extras that build camaraderie within the department.
DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE MEMORY, OR STORY, ABOUT YOUR TIME HERE?
One time, a student honored me when she graduated from the department I worked in. At a graduation dinner, she had the opportunity to say a few words and her memory was of the assistance I gave her all the way from entering the university to graduation. Her tears and sentiments affected me immensely. Just knowing how you help people in their lives makes a difference, and I was able to make a difference in hers.
TELL US SOMETHING MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU
I am an avid origami maker, and I keep a box full of origami shapes made from dollar bills. I get enjoyment from giving origami gifts to my family and friends.
I also still buy postage stamps to send holiday cards to my friends and family.
DO YOU FEEL A SPECIAL BOND WITH THE UTRGV COMMUNITY?
Having been both a student and a staff member, this created a special connection with the university. Connecting with students from class, students during work, and with both faculty and staff enriches my life. It makes UTRGV feel like a second home. I have met so many great people along the way and have many close friendships.
