IWD: Meet Margaret O’Grady-Wickware
This International Women’s Day, we’re highlighting USC alumni and long-serving staff whose experiences reflect the depth and evolution of our organization. From former student leaders who carried their USC experience into their careers and communities, to staff members who have supported students behind the scenes, their stories demonstrate the important role women have played, and continue to play, in shaping student leadership, advocacy, and campus life. Student-led spaces are often where confidence is built, voices are strengthened, and future leaders emerge. By spotlighting these experiences, we aim to celebrate contributions that have not always been equally visible and to acknowledge the impact women have had on the USC’s growth and direction over time.
Margaret O’Grady-Wickware served at USC President from 1976-1977. We caught up with her to ask about her time with the USC:
Looking back, what are you most proud of from your time with the USC?
I think what makes me most proud is how Brescia College students rallied to support my candidacy. It took some courage all those years ago to be the first woman to stand for President and I know it was my contacts in the affiliated colleges that offered strong support. Secondly, I recall that student representation on the University senate was very new at the time – one or two students were elected to represent student interests (vs significantly more today). Therefore, it was a unique and unexpected opportunity to be invited to represent students on the committee to select the sixth President of the University, George E Connell.
Did your involvement with the USC open doors or lead you in a direction you didn’t expect?
During my tenure, I met many of the stalwarts of the London business community at the time including J. A. Taylor, head of Canada Trust and Chancellor of the University. It was with his support and encouragement that I considered a banking career and joined Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce on their management training programme after finishing my term as USC President.
Were there other women through the USC, mentors, peers, leaders, who had a lasting impact on you?
I have never forgotten Betty Lewis who worked at the USC as a secretary/administrator. She was an amazing woman who kept the USC on track in every way. I have such fond memories of her kindness and compassion. A beautiful woman with whom I kept in touch for decades.
What gives you hope when you think about the next generation of women leaders?
Women have opportunities now like never before.
