The Honorable Judith Ference Olson Named Vice Chair of Saint Francis University Board of Trustees
Loretto, PA (10/19/2022) — Saint Francis University President, Very Rev. Malachi Van Tassell, T.O.R., Ph.D., proudly announces that The Honorable Judith Ference Olson, Superior Court Justice of Pennsylvania, has been elected as Vice Chair of the Saint Francis University Board of Trustees. Her Board peers elected Judge Olson at the most recent Board of Trustees meeting held on campus in October.
"We cannot be more pleased for our Saint Francis community at such an exciting time," Rev. Malachi Van Tassell said. "As we launch a bold vision in our strategic plan, Judge Olson's long history of dedication and service to her alma mater and passion for our mission makes her the perfect selection as Vice Chair."
Judge Olson obtained her Bachelor of Arts degree magna cum laude from Saint Francis University in 1979 and attended the Duquesne University School of Law, where she graduated second in her class in 1982. She served as a law clerk for a federal judge and then went into private practice, specializing in complex commercial litigation.
In 2008, the Governor of Pennsylvania nominated Judge Olson to the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County, and the Pennsylvania Senate unanimously confirmed her. She served as a trial judge in the Civil Division. On November 3, 2009, Judge Olson was elected to the Superior Court of Pennsylvania.
Judge Olson recently received the 2022 St. Thomas More Award by the Diocese of Pittsburgh. Judge Olson dedicates a significant amount of time to charitable organizations. She has been actively involved with the American Heart Association where she has served in various capacities, including as a member of the National Board of Directors. She has donated significant time to other organizations, including Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh and her church. Because of her volunteer services, Judge Olson received numerous awards including the American Heart Association Allegheny Division Volunteer of the Year Award, Community Champion Award, and the Earl G. Harrison Community Service Award.
Judge Olson resides in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania with her husband.
Saint Francis University in Loretto, PA, is the oldest Catholic-Franciscan college in the United States. Its mission is to help students grow into compassionate, successful professionals through a culture of faith, generosity, respect, discovery, and joy. Saint Francis University offers traditional campus-based learning and competitive online and graduate degree offerings.
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The Board of Trustees at Saint Francis University in Loretto, Pennsylvania, elected The Honorable Judith Ference Olson, Superior Court Justice of Pennsylvania as Vice Chair of the Board.