A Model Student

Enthusiasm exudes from Olivia Archibald. In fact, it’s rather contagious. Besides being a Huntsman Scholar, Olivia fully engaged in the USU community by contributing to extracurricular activities. Luckily, that included the Women in Business Association (WIBA), where I co-advise. As President of WIBA, Olivia led by example, motivating a board of 7 but also inspiring a club of 150 to dare mighty and build confidence through network events, one-on-one lunches, and inspiring speakers. During one WIBA career exploration trip to Lehi and Salt Lake City, Olivia encouraged attendees to ask questions and imagine possibilities. She dared mighty herself by completing five financial internships and readily shares her experience by mentoring and encouraging other students, particularly women interested in finance careers. Olivia was initially unsure if the investment industry was the right path for her. Still, with curiosity and grit, she thrived in finance and now has an offer from JP Morgan.

Olivia’s leadership philosophy goes beyond scripted roles like President. It includes causes that lift others, including her Happiness Project, which started in high school and was resurrected at USU after a year of virtual classes when student morale was low. Olivia organized a week of happiness by sending daily emails with events, inspiring videos from faculty and friends, and challenging us to connect with others on campus. Her efforts inspired the Huntsman Scholar Leadership Board to have a week of service that followed a similar format. Olivia’s desire to contribute goes beyond campus boundaries as she organized donations for CAPSA here in Cache Valley and worked with her friends to create an Art Gala to raise funds to support victims of sex trafficking. In late fall, Olivia stopped by my office and wanted to share the great things happening at Huntsman with others. With a recommendation from Dr. Susan Madsen and support from the Huntsman School, we submitted a symposium proposal that was accepted at the International Leadership Conference in Portsmouth, UK. Olivia’s enthusiasm went global as she connected with leaders and shared her experiences at Utah State. Olivia’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. She was recognized as the 2022 recipient of the Bill E. Robins Memorial Award, the highest honor an undergraduate student can receive. I am confident it is just the beginning as Olivia has taken to heart what Jon M. Huntsman said, “We each have time, talent, and creativity, all of which can be powerful forces for positive change.