Olivia Boukydis is the new Community Social Services (CSS) Chair at the University of Guelph-Humber, but she’s also a familiar face, having previously been the program’s Associate Head and even a student of the CSS program herself.
When Olivia isn’t hard at work on her PhD (which she’s nearly complete!), she dreams of travelling to the U.K. and also enjoys spending time in nature. This is what she had to say about herself:
Q: You’re no stranger to Guelph-Humber, having held the position of Associate Head of the CSS program and are an alum of the program too. How does it feel to be the new CSS Chair now?
A: I have been reflecting on this quite a bit, and I feel very grateful for the opportunity and am excited for what is to come. As you point out, my relationship with CSS and U of GH spans nearly 13 years and has taken different forms. I like to think I have an authentic understanding of the “CSS student experience” being a product of the program and having taught/worked as the Associate Head as well. I intend to use this knowledge and experience as a way to cultivate an engaging educational experience for our students – one where our students feel inspired/well-prepared for the chapter that follows their degree.
Q: You are a PhD candidate at Lancaster University, specializing in the topics of education and social justice. What does your research and thesis in this area entail?
A: My thesis examines the “knowing” of undergraduate social work students and the relationship between knowledge engagement and preparedness for practice. Studying in the department of educational research at Lancaster University helped me build connections between education and social justice, which closely aligns with my research interests. While my thesis examines the experiences of social work students – the key take-aways in terms of what contributes to knowledge construction and preparedness can be easily translated across disciplines – which I hope I can bring to our CSS courses.
Q: What’s the most rewarding part for you of working in the social services?
A: For me, a key driver to pursue a career in the social services was because I wanted to help others and have an impact in some way, which I am sure is a common motivator for many of our students. The drive to want to help others became the reward of my social work career, particularly as I had the pleasure of building relationships with so many people and have come to recognize the power and impact of building connections and fostering community. While the CSS program is designed to prepare students for a wide range of careers, social work being only one example, it is the reward of relationship/community building and the reach of its impact that has such relevance and importance to the wide-ranging opportunities available for our students.
Q: When you’re not at work, what hobbies do you enjoy?
A: Admittedly, in recent years my PhD has been my main hobby, however, as I am able to close that chapter – I would say the hobbies I can enjoy once again include being active outside – running, hiking, or leisurely strolls – exploring places on foot is a favourite pastime and I look forward to doing it more! Watching ‘90s rom-coms is another one of my favourite pastimes, too.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
A: I would love to explore England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland! I’ve lived vicariously through family and friends who have visited these places – so, I hope to drive and eat my way through these destinations.
Q: Is there anything else you want the Guelph-Humber community to know about you?
The opportunity to lead CSS, a program which has meant so much to me, is a real privilege. We have a motivated and passionate community of students and instructors who do tremendous work in and outside the classroom. A key program goal will be to celebrate and mobilize the work and successes of our CSS community. In doing so, we can build on the existing strengths of this program, make positive contributions to GH, create new opportunities, and build new relationships. The CSS program has entered a new chapter, and I look forward to seeing how it all unfolds.