Russell Olson was born and raised in Egan, South Dakota where his parents owned
and operated a small business. Russell is the second of three children and was active
in high school activities including football, basketball and track.
His interest in politics was sparked in college at the University of South Dakota
when his mentor and advisor, Dr. W.O. Farber, convinced him to run for and win a
seat on the USD Student Senate. From that point on, Russell knew that a career in
public service would be the path for him.
Russell graduated from the University of South Dakota, where he earned a Bachelor
of Science degree with majors in both English and Political Science. From 1994 to
1996, Russell attended Graduate School at USD earning his Master of Arts degree
in Public Administration. After a short stint in the private sector, Russell worked
for the South Eastern Council of Governments as a Land Use Planner. Russell was
then selected to work for the South Dakota Governor’s Office of Economic Development.
Next, he had the pleasure of acting as Executive Director for the Lake Area Improvement
Corporation, which serves as Madison’s Office of Economic Development. Russell is
currently employed as Manager of Community and Economic Development for Heartland
Consumers Power District in Madison.
On June 14th, 2008 Russell was joined in marriage to Jennifer Theophilus. Jennie
is a nurse at the North Central Heart Cath Lab and has recently accepted a position
with the Inter Lakes Medical Clinic in Madison. They have four children, Ben, Anna,
Victoria, and Gordon.
As you’ll come to know, if you don’t already, economic development and public service
aren’t just a catch phrases in an election year for Russell; it’s his passion.
