Staff Spotlight: Irena Garic
By Sophie Tidd
Irena Garic left Northwestern and the Department of Chemistry in June to move to Madison, Wisconsin where her husband will be attending law school. Irena accepted a position at the University of Wisconsin-Madison where she is working in the Chemistry Department.
Irena first joined the Department of Chemistry in February 2017, first as a temp, then as a permanent Program Assistant to Professors Hoffman, Freedman and Harris. In August 2018, she moved up to the main office, taking on the role of Executive Assistant to Teri Odom and Rich Dodd. Some of Irena’s many accomplishments were the quarterly newsletter, management of the department website and communication with donors. Although she was promoted to Program Coordinator in July 2020, Irena single-handedly managed to flawlessly execute both roles for almost a year, with the same level of professionalism, loyalty, and enthusiasm we came to expect and appreciate.
Prior to working at Northwestern, Irena lived in Hawaii for a period of time. Although the weather is Wisconsin pales in comparison, we’re sure Irena is making herself at home, enjoying the lakefront, and her new position at University of Wisconsin-Madison.
We asked Irena, what did you most love about NU?
The people. I enjoyed working with everyone and along the way I made lifelong friendships.
What contribution to NU’s Chemistry do you feel most proud of?
I am most proud of working on the Chemistry newsletter. It always felt very rewarding, to hear from the alumni community, how much they enjoyed reading about the work and achievements of the Department.
What are you enjoying now?
I am enjoying exploring Madison and spending time with my Weimaraner puppy, Lily.