I’m Christine Smith Olsey, and I’ve spent the past 20 years working in higher education, supporting first-generation college students through academic advising, financial aid guidance, and enrollment counseling. I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Communication Studies from the University of Nevada–Las Vegas, and my Master's of Public Administration from the University of Colorado–Denver.

Throughout my career, I’ve been driven by a deep commitment to student success. I’ve developed peer mentoring programs, supported early alert systems to support at-risk students, and collaborated with faculty, staff, and community partners to strengthen academic pathways and student engagement. At Western Governors University, I proudly embody our Student Obsessed principle, working tirelessly to ensure every student feels seen, supported, and empowered.

My advocacy extends beyond higher education. As a parent of two children with special needs, I’ve gained firsthand experience navigating the IEP and 504 processes. I’ve served on the Denver Public Schools Special Education Boards where I’ve worked alongside passionate professionals and listened to powerful voices—including Show + Tell’s own Executive Director, to better understand the systemic challenges families face.

These experiences have shaped my belief in inclusive practices and the importance of elevating the voices of students and caregivers. I bring empathy, resourcefulness, and a collaborative spirit to everything I do. Whether I’m connecting families to vital resources or helping shape programming that reflects lived realities, I’m committed to making a meaningful impact.

Joining the Show + Tell Board allows me to continue this work—bridging communities, advocating for tailored supports, and helping create lasting change for students and families navigating the special education universe.