Gigi Petrovich
Executive Assistant
Office of Research Advancement

Virginia A. Petrovich – “Gigi” – received her bachelor’s degree from USC, majoring in Art History. Shortly after graduating she married a fellow student and settled down to raise three children.  As her kids grew up, she returned to USC, accepting a job in the Provost’s Office as the executive assistant to the Associate Provost. We were fortunate that in 2004, Gigi transferred to the Health Sciences Campus supporting the Associate Dean for Scientific Affairs for the Medical School. She was reassigned to the Office of Research Advancement when it was created in 2008.

What is your role in the Office of Research Advancement?

I am responsible for supporting the Vice Dean for Research with organization of her daily schedule including serving as the administrative manager within the Office of Research Advancement – supporting the Associate Deans, Directors, acting as the liaison between faculty, central USC departments such as HR, Development, and the Office of Research Advancement, preparing reports, events planning, etc. 

I also serve as the administrative manager to the Faculty Research Council, the Dean’s Research Cabinet and the Scientific Conduct Committee – all advisory committees to the dean.

What do you like most about your job and USC?

I find it exciting working in the central administrative office of the medical school.  I enjoy working as a team in setting new goals and meeting new challenges in the Office of Research Advancement.

What brought you here to USC and what do you like about being here?

I began working at USC once my children were at an age where they were fairly self-sufficient.  But to be quite honest, I returned to the work force at USC in order to make my children’s college education a reality.  I am extremely fortunate to have 3 bright children who attended college here.  I will be forever indebted to USC for giving me the opportunity to offer them a top notch education.  Along the way, I’ve met many terrific colleagues and friends - all which have enriched my life.  I love the Trojan Family!