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Morgan Olstad

Manager of University Advancement Events

morgan-olstad@bethel.edu

Before Bethel

I started my journey at an Extension Site of Southeastern University in Florida, where I earned my degree in Ministerial Leadership. During those college years, my passion for higher education and college students became abundantly clear. In 2018, I took the lead in launching another Extension Site, nurturing it for a year as it established itself. Following college, I relocated to Minnesota, where I married a Bethel University alum. With the university practically in our backyard, we've had the pleasure of getting to know several current students and many alumni. Attending Vespers at Bethel regularly became our way of staying connected to the student community and participating in collective worship. Additionally, a family connection to Bethel through my mother-in-law, who worked with the Seminary and Provost for eight years, provided me with firsthand insight into the institution's values. Before joining the team here at Bethel University, I spent my days as a full-time Wedding Coordinator at a venue, where I successfully coordinated over 100 events in a year. The opportunity to merge my event planning expertise with my passion for higher education is an answered prayer.

The Best Part of My Job

My college years were transformative, fostering growth and self-discovery. I witnessed immense generosity and spirit-led discipline in ways that left a lasting impression. College not only provided me with the foundation I stand on today but also blessed me with lifelong mentors, incredible friends, and a sense of belonging to a larger family. It's a deep calling to touch the lives of students and their families from within, and being part of Bethel University feels like living out a dream where I have the opportunity to make that impact every single day.

My Guiding Scripture Verse

So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

2 Corinthians 4:18

In My Free Time

In my free time, my husband and I love staying active – fun fact, we actually met on a sand volleyball court while he was on vacation. Whether we're spending a day on our boat with our adored black lab, Nelli, or spontaneously booking a flight for our next exciting adventure, we savor every moment. Personally, I have an unwavering love for coffee, find myself endlessly scrolling through Facebook Marketplace, and take immense pleasure in creating itineraries on Canva for our upcoming trips. You could say I lean toward a Type A personality, identify as an Enneagram 1, excel at planning and organizing, and embrace a minimalist lifestyle. Luckily, I have an incredible husband who reminds me to have fun and embrace the excitement of trying new, sometimes uncomfortable things.