New addition to our team at UW

The University Centre of the Westfjords (UW) has a new addition to its team. Hjördís Þráinsdóttir started her role as a project manager in a 50% position on November 1st. Originally from Súðavík, Hjördís has lived in Ísafjörður for 25 years. She is married with three sons and has primarily worked as a records manager for the municipality of Ísafjörður since 2008. Hjördís holds a BA in Psychology from the University of Akureyri and is currently pursuing an M.Ed. in Educational Sciences along with a diploma in Special Education from the same university.

Hjördís is well-known in the music scene in Ísafjörður. She has an advanced singing certification from the local music school, performs in the church choir, women’s choir, and is a member of two bands: Rokkhundarnir, which hosts annual rock concerts on Maundy Thursday, and Fagranes, which plays at dance events. She also performs at various local events.

Hjördís also runs an Instagram account, Salt í grautinn, where she shares practical household tips with her followers.

The role of project manager at UW underwent changes following the departure of Bjarney Ingibjörg Gunnlaugsdóttir, the former project manager, who became the principal of the local music school this summer. UW extends its thanks to Bjarney for her dedicated work. The project manager position was expanded to 100%, now filled by two part-time project managers, Hjördís and Ester Sturludóttir, each at 50%.

Hjördís’ main responsibilities as a project manager include personal data protection, coordinating exams for distance students, managing records, overseeing UW’s library, and other duties. Ester Sturludóttir, formerly UW’s receptionist, began as project manager in September. Her main tasks include organizing the weekly Lunch Lecture, managing conferences and events, and overseeing the Development Fund for Immigrant Issues. Additionally, Ester holds a 25% position as office manager for UW’s student housing.

Other changes at UW include Gunna Sigga transitioning from receptionist to service manager. As a result, the reception’s hours have been adjusted, and the reception desk is now open from 08:30 to 13:30 every weekday.