Nursing Faculty Member Honored as YWCA Woman of Achievement

Each year the YWCA Spokane honors community leaders who have made significant contributions in the areas of business, education, health, and community service. One of this year’s honorees is Kay Olson, WSU College of Nursing faculty member and clinical lead for the college’s Public and Community Health courses.

Olson is a dedicated leader in the community and makes a significant impact in the field of nursing and health education. With the onset of COVID-19, Olson worked diligently alongside her students and volunteers at the health district, training and scheduling students and faculty vaccinators. She served as the preceptor at early Spokane vaccine clinics, then trained and supported new preceptors, students, and volunteers, allowing the city to keep up with the vaccination needs.

Olson’s existing relationships and history of collaboration with public health departments and health entities greatly influenced region’s the ability to respond quickly and help reduce the impact of the pandemic.  It’s estimated that her leadership in recruiting faculty and student vaccinators resulted in over 30,000 COVID-19 vaccines being administered across the region. Her dedication, goodwill, and impact on the community during the pandemic truly reflect the spirit of community health excellence.

Olson will be honored at YWCA Spokane’s 41st Annual Women of Achievement Awards Ceremony and Luncheon, held Thursday, March 9th, at the Davenport Grand, Spokane, WA, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

See select photos from the event:

View more photos from James & Kathy Mangis Photography