The Olsons’ extraordinary gift and longtime support demonstrate their generous spirit and confidence in Mount Mercy’s excellence.
Starting strong
Under Lyle’s oversight, Mount Mercy’s MFT program achieved success quickly—developing an impressive reputation and receiving national accreditation just five years after its launch. Mount Mercy offers the only accredited, practice-oriented, master’s-level MFT program of its kind in the state.
The Olson Marriage & Family Therapy Clinic offers specialized training to student therapists, enabling them to provide high-quality services in a professional clinic under the guidance of licensed practitioners. This critical community asset sets the Mount Mercy MFT program apart.
With the Olsons’ most recent gift, Mount Mercy is well-positioned to expand its leadership in marriage and family therapy, and launch its first-ever doctoral program— an important objective of the university’s strategic plan. An accreditation visit took place Oct. 10, and program coordinators are eagerly awaiting the result.
“I look forward to further serving our students and community, as well as gaining even more visibility for the MFT program.”
“We are pleased with Mount Mercy’s accomplishments in this field and are excited to support the expanding MFT program,” Audrey says. “This program provides opportunities for graduate students to deliver much needed, low-cost mental health services to individuals, families, and veterans in the Cedar Rapids community that we hold so dear.”
“I am most grateful to the Olsons for their strong belief in our work, and am honored to be appointed the first Gerald and Audrey Olson Endowed Chair for Marriage and Family Therapy,” Lyle says. “I look forward to further serving our students and community, as well as gaining even more visibility for the MFT program.”
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