Get to know: Joni Hayden-Summerton, Project Administrator with Infrastructure Development’s Project Services department

What do you love most about your job?

The people and the systems that support the projects are very cool!

What makes you laugh?

The TV show ‘The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel’ on Amazon Prime

Who inspires you, and why?

Malala Yousafzai. She transformed her pain into a global movement for girls’ education.

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned?

“If you can dream it, you can do it.” – Walt Disney

What is your favourite song or book?

My favourite song has to be Linda Eder’s version of “Man of La Mancha”. Power vocals – wow!

What’s your favourite or ideal vacation spot?

New York! I’ve seen about 25 Broadway musicals now.

How do you like to recharge?

Yoga and a movie, sometimes one right after the other.

What is your vision (personal or for your department)?

Superior achievement. Minimal stress.

What quality do you most admire in a leader?

Prioritizing the mental wellness of staff.

For you, what makes UBC different?

How much UBC values education for its staff as well as its students.

If you could have a super power, what would it be?

Flying!

What would you like to be remembered for?

Creativity… and mental health advocacy.