Developing Tomorrow's Leaders
Rushawnda J. Olden has dedicated her career to preparing young people for leadership, civic engagement, and workforce success. As Director of the South Carolina 4-H Pinckney Leadership Program at Clemson University, she provides executive leadership for the state's premier 4-H leadership initiative, overseeing statewide programming that reaches more than 4,000 youth each year. She leads strategic planning, budget administration, fundraising, staff development, marketing, program evaluation, and partnership initiatives that expand opportunities for young people across South Carolina.
Olden has built a reputation for creating meaningful partnerships that strengthen communities and increase access to leadership development. She manages an annual operating budget exceeding $500,000, has secured more than $100,000 in grants and external funding, and supervises a team of 16 staff members, interns, and seasonal employees. Throughout her career with Clemson University, Communities in Schools of Greenville, and Redemption Outreach & Resources, she has led initiatives focused on student success, family engagement, volunteer development, workforce readiness, and community collaboration. Her leadership extends beyond the workplace through service on community boards and professional organizations dedicated to youth development and civic engagement.
A graduate of South Carolina State University, Olden earned a Bachelor of Science in Marketing before completing a Master of Public Administration and pursuing doctoral studies in Public Policy at Clemson University. Her commitment to developing future leaders has earned recognition through the South Carolina 4-H Extension Association Distinguished Service Award and continues to shape opportunities for youth throughout the state.
Educational Background
- Doctoral Student, Public Policy (Expected 2028), Clemson University
- Master of Public Administration, University of Nebraska Omaha
- Bachelor of Science in Marketing, South Carolina State University, Class of 2008