Dr. Erin Olson

Dr. Erin Olson serves as professor of social work and the director of Dordt’s Master of Social Work (MSW) program. Her deep Christian faith informs her passion for equipping students to engage in kingdom work through the field of social work.

“There are thousands of verses in the Bible that call us to care for the ‘quartet of the downtrodden,’” says Olson. “I believe that social work is the professional embodiment of that call to care for the vulnerable.”

Dr. Olson teaches a variety of courses on topics such as behavioral therapies, grief, social justice, and research methods—all centered around a commitment to cultivating knowledge, practical skills, and a Christ-like love for others. “I am motivated by seeing the way students get excited about their call to serve vulnerable people in God’s kingdom,” she adds.

As a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) in the state of Iowa, Olson was honored with Dordt’s Noteworthy Service and Scholarship award in 2022. She is a frequent contributor to the In All Things blog and has published book reviews in Social Work & Christianity.

Before joining Dordt, Olson worked as a home-based therapist with Southeastern Behavioral Health Care in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, where she provided counseling for children and families connected with Child Protective Services, Juvenile Justice, and behavioral health programs. From 2004 to 2006, she also served as program supervisor. She later worked as an MSW-level discharge planner at St. Luke’s Hospital in Sioux City, Iowa, supporting patients in orthopedic, rehabilitation, and surgical units.

Outside the classroom, Olson serves on the advisory board of the Family Visitation and Exchange Center, a program of the Family Crisis Centers. In her personal time, she enjoys spending time with her family and engaging in hobbies such as singing, playing piano, reading, and cooking.

Education

• Ph.D. in Social Work, Baylor University, 2017
• MSW, University of Nebraska–Omaha, 2004
• BSW, Dordt College, 2002