Boozman aide up for career award

Susan Olson, an attorney and deputy chief of staff to U.S. Sen. John Boozman, is a finalist for the 2019 Staff Lifetime Achievement Democracy Award, which is presented by the nonpartisan Congressional Management Foundation.

Each year, the organization presents a lifetime achievement award to two lawmakers and one staff member “who have had long, respected careers in the Congress and who have had positive impacts on the management and operations of part or all of the institution.”

“Long career” means a minimum of 20 years.

The winner will be announced June 20.

Olson, who arrived in Washington from Nebraska during the President Ronald Reagan era, has more than 30 years of experience. In addition to her current post, her service has included House chief of staff, a House Ethics Committee legal counsel, secretary of the House Delegation to the British American Parliamentary Group and secretary of the House NATO Parliamentary Assembly Delegation.

When Boozman switched from the House to the Senate in 2011, he hired Olson as his deputy chief of staff and general counsel.

In an interview, Boozman said Olson “exemplifies true public service.”

“She could have left many years ago [and] made a lot more money doing something else, but she’s chosen to remain in our office.”

The chief deputy’s commitment to constituent services also has been highlighted.

Olson is “more than valuable, [she’s] an invaluable person,” Boozman added.

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