The Rocky Mountain Collegian

Issue date: 2/17/09 Section: News

Media Credit: Rachel Dembrun Erik Olson, former CSU defensive end, stands in front of the College of Business on Feb. 9. Olson was appointed the director of development of the college at the beginning of February.

During his days in college, Erik Olson went to work during the weekend. The former Rams defensive end ranked in the top 10 in tackles, interceptions and games played in his years at CSU.

Olson gained enough notoriety on the field to earn a year-long ride in the NFL from the Jacksonville Jaguars.

But nowadays Olson finds himself suiting up not in that green and gold number 28 jersey with the eye black and the shoulder pads, but in business attire.

Instead of weekends, he now works Monday though Friday for his alma mater.

Just a month ago Olson joined his next team -- the College of Business ­­-- as the newest director of development, bringing his career full-circle.

With an extensive background in both small and professional businesses, Olson came back to CSU ready to build on the strong foundation he once knew as a student.

After his tenure in the NFL phased out, Olson and three investors purchased a local Cold Stone Creamery.

From there, he would move on to purchase Uptown Liquors in southern Fort Collins, a store in which business associate John Burdik said Olson devoted himself to.

"People believed in his business," Burdik said, adding that the confidence in his work that Olson oozed and his ability support customers sparked confidence in his patrons.

Olson's drive and determination comes as no surprise to his longtime friend Anthony Cesario, who said since first meeting 13 years ago he's recognized Olsen's success in everything he's attempted.

Olson speaks humbly about his résumé, looking back on the many turns his careers have taken him, and stresses that in this economy a "degree is now needed" to succeed.

Graduating with bachelor's degree in business administration and computer information systems in 2000, Olson turned immediately to the NFL.

But after his stint in professional football and his time with his two businesses, Olson realized his degree was already outdated. Therefore, he resolved to return to CSU to embark on his masters in CIS, which he received in 2004.

Continued...

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