Information Technology Services (ITS)
IT@UofT People — Jess Whyte
Published on: May 22, 2025
The backbone of any successful team is its hard-working people. The University of Toronto’s information technology professionals are no exception. IT@UofT is made up of a diverse range of people with an even greater diversity in their interests and talents.
In this segment, entitled “IT@UofT People,” we will get to know our IT@UofT community across all three campuses and find out more about their hidden or not-so-hidden talents and/or pursuits outside of work.
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Department: University of Toronto Libraries
Title: Librarian; Coordinator, ITS Library Services
How long have you worked at U of T?
I first started as a graduate student in 2015 and then came on full time in 2017. I’ve been here ever since.
What is your secret or not-so-secret talent or hobby outside of work?
I love Survivor, the television show, does that count as a hobby? I’ve watched every season, I go to events, listen to podcasts, and I’m always up for chatting theories or cast leaks. I’ve been watching live since Season 1 (Borneo, 2000) and I never stopped. Ask me about my favourite season (Micronesia – Fans vs. Favorites, Season 16) or my favourite winner (spoiler alert!). Oh, and I love riding my bike too, but that’s not as fun to talk about as Survivor.
How and why did you get involved in this hobby?
Survivor was a huge television event in 2000. I got completely hooked and never looked back. I used to watch with my brother for years, and now I watch with my own kids. It’s become a tradition.
Do you have any outstanding memories from this hobby?
I have good memories of going to weekly Survivor watch parties at Pegasus, a bar in Toronto’s Church-Wellesley Village. They’re well-run by a great host who leads trivia, audience voting, and themed giveaways while we all watch the episode together. It’s a fun, welcoming crowd, and over the years I’ve met some great fellow fans. I’ve also attended live tapings of Survivor podcasts; it’s all part of the fan community experience.
Who/what are your inspirations?
In my work, I’m inspired by scholars like N. Katherine Hayles, whose writing on materiality and digital culture and how technologies shape research has influenced how I think about information systems and my own work. I’m also lucky to work alongside thoughtful, generous colleagues who keep me learning and adapting.
If we’re talking about Survivor, I’ll say legend Natalie Anderson for always keeping her eye on the long game.