Olivia Hagerty
Graduation year: 2022
High school: Rockford Guilford High School
Hometown: Rockford, Ill.
Majors: Multimedia journalism and mass communication; communication studies
Activities: Varsity basketball, Office of Student Life, Delta Chi Theta sorority, Mortar Board honor society, Student Athlete Advisory Committee, Big Brother Big Sisters Quad Cities
Internships: Rockford Rivets marketing intern; Augustana’s EDGE Center marketing Intern
Post-grad plans: Marketing assistant for Executive Construction in Chicago
Why Augustana?
Basketball is what brought me to Augustana, but once I visited campus, I realized the endless opportunities and experiences Augie had to offer. Augie just felt right. From its challenging courses, the tight-knit community and the unique relationships, I knew I was meant to be a Viking.
Are you where you thought you'd be when you first came to campus?
I have definitely surprised myself with how much I have been able to accomplish these past four years. I never thought I would be able to balance being a student-athlete and other involvements, but as a Viking, you can do anything you set your mind to.
I knew the first time I stepped on campus I wanted to leave an impact on this community, and I was able to do so through my involvement. During these four years, I have been able to see my confidence grow.
Who helped you get to where you are now?
The list could go on and on. The people at Augustana are what have allowed me to thrive during my four years here.
The women’s basketball team became my immediate family at Augie. My teammates and I were there for each other during both rewarding and challenging times. My freshmen class is still together after four years, and they have become a core group in my experience (shoutout roomies).
I have been heavily impacted by being involved with the Office of Student Life. The OSL team has taught me to value teamwork and hard work. While I was in a leadership role, I realized that being a successful leader requires you to learn from others and work together. It’s an understatement when I say leaving this office is going to be difficult.
I cannot express how thankful I am to have such a supportive and caring family. I could not have done these four years without them by my side.
Shoutout to all my professors, advisors, friends, coaches and everyone in-between.
Peak experience?
I have to pick one?! My whole time at Augie was a peak experience. If I had to choose one, it would when I was part of the OSL summer staff and directed the 2021 Welcome Week with Cole Bathje.
Planning a week full of engaging events for 700 incoming first-years was very rewarding, and it was amazing to instill passion for Augustana within them. It was awesome to get so close with many OSL members that summer.
What surprised you?
The amount of passion and love I gained for Augie after four quick years is what surprised me the most. From the amazing relationships, the Viking traditions and finding out who you are, being a Viking is truly something special.
How did you use your Augie Choice?
I used my Augie Choice to travel to Spain with the women’s basketball team. We visited Malaga, Madrid and Barcelona.
What will you miss the most?
The amazing people and experiences. I’ll always miss laughing in the Brew with my friends, late-night adventures with my roommates, spending countless hours working in OSL, performing Yell in the Quad with DCHIS, lifting with my teammates at Carver, staying after class to catch up with a professor, exploring the Quad Cities, and so much more.
Being a Viking at Augustana is something I’m always going to cherish in life. This community is unlike any other.
Advice for the Class of 2026?
Be kind to everyone, embrace every moment, have faith in yourself and be proud to be a Viking!
"Olivia (Liv) is a perfect example of a student getting the most out of their college experience. It was a joy to watch Liv grow and develop into an amazing leader, mentor and coach among students. I don’t recall exactly when she found her 'voice,' but once she experienced that confidence within, she forged ahead. Her values guided her work inside and outside the classroom. Her positive disposition, coupled with always being at the top of her game, will surely be missed in the OSL. I am confident Liv will bring joy and positive impact to others as she continues her journey."