CENTREVILLE – "We are so thrilled to announce the appointment of this year’s Honorary Chairman,” said Kathie Stratman, President of the St. Joseph County United Way. “Rob Olsen, Sturgis Public Schools Superintendent, has accepted the appointment as this year’s United Way Campaign Annual Honorary Chairman".

The position of Honorary Campaign Chair is not one to be taken lightly. A lot of work goes into searching for the right candidate. “We spend time looking for a person who would be willing to work for our funded agencies, while having fun in the process.” Stratman said. “The job has been held by special individuals in the county who have earned our respect and Rob will be no different.”

Rob has served as the Superintendent of Sturgis Public Schools since July 1998. He has assisted in the passage of two millage enhancement votes and assisted in the passage of two bond millage projects.

Rob holds a Bachelor’s Degree of Science from Central Michigan University, with a Social Studies Major and a Physical Education Minor. He received his Master’s Degree in 1983 from Central Michigan University in Educational Administration.

He recently was named as the recipient of the 2007 “Superintendent of the Year” for the State of Michigan by the Michigan Association of School Administrators.

With his leadership, the Sturgis Public Schools has been in the Top Ten Contributing Organizations to the St. Joseph County United Way, which is extremely notable in any campaign.

Rob’s list of professional organization affiliations is lengthy, including:

• Member, Sturgis Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors
• Member, Board of Directors of the Sturgis Education Endowment Foundation
• President, Sturgis Rotary Club
• American Association of School Administrators
• Michigan Association of School Administrators
• Association of Supervision and Currivulum Development
• Michigan Association of Sueprvision and Curriculum Development
• Former President, Mason Optimist Club, Optimist International

"Rob is respected by many in the county, and state school systems, as well as by parents and community leaders,” states Kelly Hostetler, Executive Director of the St. Joseph County United Way. “we will have a lot of fun this year, while working hard to raise the $650,000 needed for our 40 local agencies."