Former doctor and regular Williston State donor Bob Olson has always kept a close eye on the affairs of the college. In fact, once a direct neighbor living across the street from the school, he saw Williston State rising from the ground nearly 50 years ago.

“I’m an old athlete, a jock you might say. I was one of the original members of the Hall of Fame of the Booster Club. Williston State has entertained me, my entire life in this community, through the athletic program.”

Dr. Olson has provided many types of support to the college over the years, including transportation for athletes, contributions through the Foundation, and donations of the Hustle and Most Valuable Player awards at the end of each season.

Recently, at a gathering of donors at the Foundation office, Dr. Olson solved the longtime mystery about why, as a loyal fan, he repeatedly turned up missing during college athletic events. His enthusiasm for Teton sports knew no bounds. “In fact, I sat behind the opposing team to keep the opponent’s coach and the officials honest,” he confessed, laughing.

But on a more serious note, Bob expressed his gratitude for Williston State at a recent gathering of donors. “Two of my five children attended Williston State and I have a grandson there in automotive school. But in my own situation college made all the difference in the world.”

He grew up in a small town, he said. “There were 12 kids in my class, and the school burned down, so there were no facilities of any kind. I didn’t have a clue where I was heading.”

In that situation, attending a liberal arts college was crucial for exposing him to a variety of interesting subjects, he said.

“One reason I support Williston State College through the Foundation is to ensure that students who are undecided about their future can come and get exposed to more than a vocational education. I chose medicine. I want my dollars to make a difference in helping students make their own important career choices.”

Bob continues to keep an eye on Williston State, not only at athletic events, but through continuing education classes. “I have been an adult ed. student in carpentry and photography, and have also taken computer classes for the last 10 years.”

Thanks, Dr. Olson and so many others, for giving not only monetarily, but being the heart and soul of what makes the Williston State community so special.