05/12/2026
A couple of weeks ago we were deep in the throes of tech week so we have some recognitions to catch up on!
On April 29th Dr. Nicola Olsen was recognized as this yearâs recipient of the Dr. Rich Berrett Outstanding Service-Learning Faculty Award at Fresno State!
This award honors faculty who carry forward Dr. Rich Berrettâs legacy of community engagement, compassionate teaching, and service-learning excellence. Through Drama 136S â Puppetry, Dr. Olsen inspires future educators to use the arts to spark creativity, learning, and connection for young people of all ages.
From partnering with local schools during Read Across America Week, to collaborating with the Phoenix Pageant in Auberry, to hosting community puppet events at the Betty Rodriguez Library, Dr. Olsen and her students continue to make a meaningful impact throughout the Central Valley.
Congratulations, Dr. Olsen, on this well-deserved recognition, and thank you for the incredible work you do both in and beyond the classroom! We are so lucky to have you in our department!