Senior gymnast Carly Oniki is making a significant contribution to the Penn Quakers Women’s Gymnastics team, as well as to the broader University of Pennsylvania and Philadelphia communities. As she approaches graduation in May, Oniki reflects on her leadership roles and community involvement.
Oniki holds positions in the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) and the Women’s Athletic Association (WAA), and is an active member of the Penn Athletics Wharton Leadership Academy (PAWLA). Her approach to leadership centers on setting an example for others. “As you move through your time at Penn, you realize how influential even your smallest actions can be,” Carly said. “Leaders have the privilege and responsibility to drive positive change.”
Within SAAC, Oniki has worked to boost student-athlete participation in community service activities. She described volunteering as one of the most valuable aspects of her time at Penn, aiming to inspire others to become involved. “It benefits both the surrounding community and the student-athlete experience,” she shared.
Her work with WAA has allowed her to form connections with female athletes across different sports teams. This year, she played a role in expanding WAA’s partnerships in the community, notably through a new collaboration with Young Quakers that brought local middle and high school girls onto campus for sports activities, discussions, and mentorship opportunities. “It was so fulfilling to know our work made a positive impact,” she said.
Oniki expressed pride in her contributions on and off the mat, stating: “I feel confident that I will leave Penn having created meaningful, positive change.”
She also credits her experience as a student-athlete with teaching her resilience, teamwork, and composure under pressure—qualities she plans to take into a career in technology consulting after graduation. Oniki’s interests outside athletics include gender equity and youth empowerment, values evident in her efforts with WAA and dedication to mentoring younger generations.
Her presence within Penn Athletics has touched many students, staff members, and community partners. The influence of her leadership is expected to remain even after she leaves campus.
