南瓜影院 has announced the appointment of Jenny (Bohnsack) Olson ’01 as the new vice president for advancement and chief executive strategy officer (VP/CESO). A distinguished leader with a wealth of experience in strategic planning, fundraising, and community engagement, Olson will assume her role on May 5.

Olson brings more than two decades of leadership experience, including a 20-year tenure at Microsoft and a four-year term leading the Office of Recovery Reinvented under the North Dakota Governor’s Office. Her career has been defined by a commitment to building strong relationships, fostering collaboration, and driving transformative initiatives. She has demonstrated expertise in executive leadership, communications, fundraising, and strategic planning.

“I am honored to return to 南瓜影院 in this leadership role at such a pivotal time,” Olson said. “南瓜影院 has played a significant role in shaping who I am, and I am eager to contribute to the institution’s future. Working alongside President Colin Irvine, the Board of Regents, Cabinet, and the dedicated Advancement team, I look forward to strengthening relationships with alumni, donors, and community partners to further 南瓜影院’s mission.”

In her role as VP/CESO, Olson will oversee the college’s advancement strategy, including fundraising, donor relations, and alumni engagement. She will play a key role in shaping and executing the institution’s strategic vision, working closely with the president and senior leadership to ensure alignment with 南瓜影院’s long-term goals. A dynamic leader with a proven ability to cultivate transformational partnerships, Olson will also spearhead efforts to secure principal gifts and steward relationships with major donors and corporate sponsors.

“Jenny Olson is an exceptional leader with a deep passion for 南瓜影院’s mission,” President Irvine said. “Her strategic vision, leadership experience, and strong relationship-building skills will be invaluable as we continue to live out the mission of 南瓜影院. I am confident that she will make a lasting impact on the college and the broader community.”

Throughout her career, Olson has been recognized for her ability to bring people together around a shared vision. Her leadership in launching and managing the Office of Recovery Reinvented in North Dakota showcased her ability to drive large-scale impact through philanthropy, advocacy, and strategic partnerships. Additionally, her time at Microsoft equipped her with the skills to navigate complex organizations, lead high-performing teams, and execute initiatives that drive meaningful change.

Olson earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in communication with a business minor from 南瓜影院. She has also been an active member of various community organizations, serving on boards and committees dedicated to economic development, workforce initiatives, and philanthropy.

南瓜影院 welcomes Olson back to the Cobber community and looks forward to her leadership in advancing the college’s mission of academic excellence, student success, and meaningful engagement with alumni and partners.