#MyParkStory Staff Craig Olsen

Sledding with Craig

C. Killian

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore would like to recognize Education Technician Craig Olsen. Originally from Kalamazoo, Craig started at Sleeping Bear Dunes in 2014 in the fees division. He then moved to the education division in 2018. Craig is retiring this year after 11 seasons.

During his youth, frequent visits to the Kalamazoo Nature Center and family vacations to National Parks inspired Craig to enter the field of environmental education. Northern Michigan and Sleeping Bear Dunes drew him in with their unique natural beauty and a coincidental familial resemblance. Though he bears no relation, Craig feels connected to the Olsen family that settled in Port Oneida. Specifically, Charles Olsen, which also happens to be Craig’s father’s name. Craig loves Esch Beach, a favorite place in the park. He calls it The Magic Beach because something special seems to happen there every time he goes. One particularly special occasion to him was a sunset in early May, enjoyed with his wife Vicki, when they had the entire beach to themselves. Accompanied only by the music of wood thrushes, the lapping of waves, the fresh scent of marram grass, a bald eagle circling above and the sun set, painting the sky with a kaleidoscope of colors.

Craig joined the education team during a time of transition and has been instrumental in building up the division at Sleeping Bear Dunes. He brought with him a wealth of experience from working with other educational organizations. He is at least partly, in some cases entirely, responsible for our excellent education programs provided to school groups on a daily basis. Craig loves interacting with the students that visit the park. Even though he’s only with them for a short period of time, he still can have an impact on their education.

“For me, the first thing that comes to mind when I think of my time spent working alongside Craig is his energy. The guy just seems to have enthusiasm for days, and it's nearly impossible to not pick up some of that vibe when you're on a school group with him. You can literally see the excitement in his face when he's facilitating an educational program, and that does wonders to make the rest of the team feel comfortable "nerding out" about whatever topic is at hand, especially new folks who may be nervous about leading a field trip. It's hard to imagine a school field trip season without his passion for the work we do and unique sense of humor raising people's spirits.” -Dave Fenlon, Education Lead.

Though he chose not to be in a position of authority, Craig is also looked upon as a mentor by many of the staff and volunteers within the park. For people starting with the National Park Service, Craig believes that getting an internship is key. That is the time when you can see what a job is like day-to-day and decide if it’s for you. Regardless of the outcome, you gain valuable experience you can use to grow. Being willing to move to different locations is also important. Expanding his horizons and building that experience has allowed Craig to be where and who he wants to be.

In his retirement, Craig plans to be busy. Focusing on his excellent photography and traveling. He also looks forward to volunteering with the park, as well as other organizations, on his own schedule. Craig hopes that people will remember him for his bad jokes as part of the legacy he leaves behind. There’s no question about that. But also for his sense of excitement and passion for amazing places like this. He will always be remembered as an exceptional educator, mentor, and friend.