On February 6th we lost a member of the YSI family, Russell J. Olive, III. We were all shocked and saddened to hear of this. Russell came to YSI from his position at Project Home, giving YSI 22 years of his talents. As a graduate of Drexel University, Russell was quite familiar with the Powelton area. Phillies, the Young and the Restless, pizzelles, and animals, especially dogs, were some of the things that come to mind when we remember Russell. He was also the office supplier of chocolates – a much needed soother for many of us.
Russell began at YSI as the Accountant working with Laurie Ward, then Executive Director, and Bob Grant, then CFO. As his career at YSI moved forward, Russell added IT to his job responsibilities in 1998. He became the Accounting Manager in 2014 and upon the retirement of Bob Grant, he became Controller in 2018. Russell will be remembered for his tireless dedication to the agency and those we serve. His door was always open to his co-workers to stop by and talk, explore new ideas to improve the agency, sports (especially his beloved Phillies), or life in general.
His legacy will continue to impact YSI and the communities we serve. We appreciate Russell choosing YSI as his work home.