From Social Work to Global Leadership: Jody Olsen on Service, Empowerment, and the Peace Corps

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In this episode of The UMB Pulse, Jody Olsen, PhD, MSW '72, a distinguished leader in global public service and former Peace Corps director shares her journey from aspiring social worker to influential advocate for women's empowerment, cross-cultural understanding, and global citizenship.

Olsen, an alumna of the University of Maryland School of Social Work, shares in detail about her experiences leading transformative Peace Corps programs, overcoming challenges, and her ongoing contributions to the University of Maryland, Baltimore community.

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Jody Olsen
02:37 Early Life and Career Beginnings
05:09 Navigating Leadership Challenges
09:04 Impact of the Peace Corps in Eastern Europe
17:20 Women's Empowerment and Mentorship
36:36 Global Community Building and UMB's Role
43:33 Memorable Moments and Reflections
49:31 Advice to the Younger Generation

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