OKLAHOMA CITY– The Association of American Indian Physicians (AAIP) has announced the selection of Polly Olsen as its new executive director. Olsen will start the position beginning September 2015. Olsen will fill the position held by Margaret Knight who is retiring after 27 years with the organization. The AAIP Board of Directors selected Olsen after a national search.
“We are very pleased to announce Polly as the incoming executive director,” said Andrew Haputa, MD, and current President of AAIP. “Polly’s background uniquely positions her to lead the organization into its 45th year and expound on the Association’s mission.”
Olsen has over 14 years experience in academia and healthcare. She is currently the Director of Community Relations at the University of Washington where she liaisons between tribal communities, organizations, and academic institution. Previously, Olsen was the Director of the Native American Center of Excellence in Seattle. She also serves at the President of the Board of Directors for the Seattle Indian Health Board. Olsen is an enrolled member of the Yakama tribe.
"I am honored to be chosen as the next executive director of the Association of American Indian Physicians. I am passionate about the mission of the organization,” remarks Olsen. “Margaret will be missed yet her leadership, expertise and wisdom will continue within the heart and soul of the organization. Thank you Margaret for many years of service. I humbly step into your AAIP moccasins."
– The Association of American Indian Physicians is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization founded in 1971 as an educational, scientific, and charitable organization. AAIP’s primary goal is to improve the health of American Indians and Alaska Natives (AI/AN) through public health initiatives and to recruit AI/AN students into medical professions. AAIP is headquartered in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.