Donna J. Olsen
Donna Olsen is the Senior Minister and Founding Pastor of Hope 4 All UHM Interfaith Community, a role held since 2017. Based in Fargo, North Dakota, Donna leads an inclusive interfaith spiritual community rooted in compassion, justice, and open dialogue. Through this ministry, Donna is committed to building bridges across faith traditions and cultivating spaces where diverse beliefs are honored, connection is deepened, and care for people, animals, and the planet is central.
With extensive experience in nonprofit leadership, campaign coordination, and faith-based organizing, Donna brings strengths in preaching, organizational development, social justice advocacy, and communications. Prior to founding Hope 4 All UHM, Donna served as an Energy Equity Campaign Organizer with Minnesota Interfaith Power & Light, collaborating with faith communities to advance equitable access to renewable energy, workforce development, and policy initiatives that benefit low-income communities and communities of color. Additional experience includes years of service as volunteer clergy, providing pastoral care, worship leadership, and justice-focused ministry.
Donna holds a Master of Divinity in Peace and Justice Studies from United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities and a Bachelor of Science in Therapeutic Recreation from Texas State University. Grounded in resilience and lifelong learning, Donna prioritizes personal wellness through fitness and intentional self-care, and enjoys reading theological and spiritual works, with a particular appreciation for Native American spirituality. These personal practices inform a holistic approach to ministry and leadership, reflecting a deep commitment to balance, empathy, and meaningful service.
• Texas State University - BS
• Austin Community College - AAS
• United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities - MDIV
• Dayton Merit Scholarship
• Golden Key National Honor Society
• Phi Theta Kappa Honor Fraternity
• Delta Psi Kappa Fraternity
• Outstanding Performer Award - Offutt AFB, NE
• Airman of the Quarter - Offutt AFB, Nebraska
• Honor Graduate - US Air Force Technical Training
• Honor Graduate - US Air Force Basic Training
• ISAIAH
• United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities
• MoveOn.org
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to an open-hearted commitment to dialogue, service, and resilience. My journey into interfaith ministry began in 2016 and was shaped by foundational advocacy work in Minneapolis, particularly in environmental initiatives, where I learned that no single faith holds all the answers—yet together we uncover far more common ground than division. As a veteran who has navigated personal hardships, I bring deep empathy to the people and communities I serve. My proudest achievement is building the ministry itself and the meaningful, tangible difference it makes in the lives of people and pets alike. I remain grounded by resilience, choosing not to let setbacks derail me and instead renewing my spirit through spiritual practice and fitness classes at the VA, guided by a belief in keeping both my heart and mind open to diverse perspectives.