Colorado State University Alumnus and Former NFL Draft Pick Joins College of Business Staff

Note to Editors: A photo of Erik Olson is available with the news release at http://www.newsinfo.colostate.edu/.

Colorado State University alumnus and former NFL draft pick Erik Olson has joined the university staff as the new director of Development at Colorado State University’s College of Business.

Olson, a former defensive back for the CSU Rams, was drafted after graduation in 2000 by the Jacksonville Jaguars, but returned to CSU to build on his bachelor’s degree in business administration and computer information systems. He earned his master’s in computer information systems in 2004.

"When you graduate from Colorado State University, you leave with a great foundation that allows you to go out with a confidence that you can do wonderful things," Olson said. "I’m eager to reach out to people who have not yet become involved with CSU, to tell them about my move and to get them interested in being part of its continuing growth."

Before returning to Fort Collins after the NFL, Olson and three local investors opened a Cold Stone Creamery franchise. He developed strategies that brought the store to a top 10 national ranking and first place in total sales and gross profits statewide during its first five years. In 2003, Olson left the franchise to purchase Uptown Liquors, creating a market in high-end wine management and delivery.

Most recently, he was the midwest regional manager for Solvi Brands, a beverage producer and marketer.

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