The PMI MN Volunteer of the Month Award recognizes PMI MN members who exhibit leadership, dedication, initiative, and whose multiple accomplishments in their area(s) of volunteerism, on behalf of PMI MN, contribute a high level of impact to the Minnesota Chapter of the Project Management Institute.
To nominate an outstanding PMI MN Volunteer, submit a Volunteer of the Month nomination!
2024 | 2023 | 2022 | 2021 | 2020 | 2019
The PMI MN Chapter is honored to present Rachel Mussell as our July 2024 Volunteer of the Month. 
I have had the distinct pleasure of working and collaborating with Rachel Mussell on several initiatives at the PMI MN Chapter in recent years. Throughout her volunteering, Rachel has consistently demonstrated exceptional skills in project management and leadership.
Rachel has been volunteering with PMI MN Chapter since 2021 and has served in various roles such as vice chair of programs committee, program director for our regional conference R2/R3 in 2023 (special project). She took on the Programs Committee chair role earlier this year and has so far done a fantastic job. An interesting story about Rachel leading the R/R3 LIM conference in 2023. Rachel was asked to step into the program director role for the event at the last minute when the previous lead had to step away for personal reasons. She readily accepted the challenge and successfully oversaw the delivery of the event in collaboration with other volunteers.
I particularly appreciate Rachel’s outstanding leadership. PMI MN Chapter is very thankful for that you have done for our members and fellow volunteers. Most recently Rachel took the time to put together a comprehensive transition document for the incoming Programs Committee chair that will be taking over from her. She made sure that her committee is well equipped to carry on the torch. Rachel is creative and innovative, always finding ways to improve our processes. She volunteered and took the time to organize the operations committee meeting notes template in addition to updating the operations team events calendar and the list goes on and on.
Most importantly, she is very approachable and welcoming, excelling at fostering collaboration among our volunteers ensuring everyone is aligned with the chapter’s set goals and objectives.
Again, from myself and the PMI MN leadership – thank you for all your contributions to the chapter. We are proud of you and wish you the best in your new endeavor. We are comforted by the fact that we will see you around.
-Cindy Ward, Vice Chair of the Volunteer Committee
The PMI MN Chapter is honored to present Glory Ikeata Olaniyan as our June 2024 Volunteer of the Month.
I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation for the leadership Glory Olaniyan has demonstrated in leading and growing the Sponsorship committee. Last fall, Glory graciously volunteered to take on the Sponsorship committee role when the prior leader had to step down due to other conflicting priorities. From the moment you took over the Sponsorship Committee it was evident that your leadership skills would have a profound impact on the chapter. Your dedication, initiative and commitment in getting our sponsors re-engaged with PMI MN chapter is very much appreciated. Early this year she hosted a sponsor’s luncheon, cultivating, building relationships and articulating PMI MN value proposition to our sponsors. Emphasizing the mutual benefits to be hard in collaborating and partnering with the chapter.
In the short period of your leadership, you have achieved remarkable results. Most recently being the engagement and participation of four of our key sponsors in attendance at our Annual Volunteer Gala event. Your willingness to go above and beyond expectations has set a shining example for others to follow, and your positive attitude has created a supportive and inclusive environment for all.
Your tenacity and drive for results has got our sponsors interested again in engaging and partnering with us. On behalf of PMI MN chapter, I want to express our gratitude for your invaluable contributions as a volunteer leader. Your leadership has made a significant difference in serving our members.
Thank you, Glory, for all you do! We are lucky to have you. :)
-Cindy Ward, Vice Chair of the Volunteer Committee
The PMI MN Chapter is honored to present Priya Venkatasubramian as our May 2024 Volunteer of the Month. 
Priya Venkatasubramian - I am thrilled to nominate Priya from the Professional Development Committee for Volunteer of the Month. As the Program Manager for Seminars, Priya has consistently demonstrated exceptional dedication and leadership.
Her recent accomplishment in organizing the "Journey of the Project Manager" event for Women's History Month truly exemplifies her commitment to our organization's goals. Priya meticulously coordinated all aspects of the event, from securing speakers to managing meetings and crafting the meeting agenda. Her attention to detail ensured that every aspect of the event ran smoothly, leaving a lasting impression on all participants.
Priya's passion for professional development and her tireless efforts to empower others within our community make her an invaluable asset to our team. I wholeheartedly believe that her outstanding contributions deserve recognition.
Thank you, Priya, for all you do! We are lucky to have you. :)
-Cindy Ward, Vice Chair of the Volunteer Committee
The PMI MN Chapter is honored to present Stephanie Skarolid as our April 2024 Volunteer of the Month. 
Stephanie has gone above and beyond to improve the quality of our Programs Committee events. Since she joined the committee, she has taken the recordings of our events and produced a beautiful presentation that PMI MN can post on our website for on-demand webinars for our members.
While technology is always a work in progress, we are extremely grateful for everything Stephanie has done so far. She is passionate about providing high-quality content to our members and it shows.
Thank you, Stephanie, for all you do! We are lucky to have you. :)
The PMI MN Chapter is honored to present Matthew Olsen as our March 2024 Volunteer of the Month. 
With over 14 years of membership, Matthew's journey with PMI-MN began shortly after earning his PMP certification in 2010. Currently serving as a Project Management Supervisor at the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, Matthew brings a wealth of experience and a passion for coaching his team and fellow project managers to excel in the profession.
A retired United States Army Reserve veteran with an impressive 22 years of service, Matthew culminated his military career as the senior non-commissioned officer in charge of a Threat and Vulnerability Assessment team. His commitment to service extends beyond his professional life, embodying the spirit of leadership and dedication.
Last year, Matthew entered a new chapter of life, marrying a wonderful woman. Together, they are a blended family with four adult children, two rescue Great Danes, and a couple of feline companions. Matthew's heart extends to the animal kingdom as he has spent numerous years volunteering and serving on the board for the Upper Midwest Great Dane Rescue. His accidental entry into working with rescue Danes has blossomed into a beloved and impactful effort, showcasing his caring nature and commitment to making a difference.
Matthew's calling for service is evident in both his professional and personal life. Having worked for the State and served in the military, he has embraced the opportunity to contribute to something larger than himself. As an IT professional, witnessing ideas transform into legislation and practical applications that benefit the citizens of the State has become a driving force in his work. Matthew's innate ability to inspire and instill this drive into his team reflects his unwavering commitment to helping others grow and become the best versions of themselves.
In recent times, Matthew gracefully accepted changes and additional responsibilities as the Chair of the PMI-MN Outreach Committee. With a smile on his face, he is uniting his team and bringing a fresh perspective to their vital work. Matthew's grace under pressure and leadership shine brightly, making him an invaluable asset to the PMI-MN community.
Join us in celebrating Matthew J Olsen, a true embodiment of service, leadership, and compassion! Thank you, Matthew, for making a profound impact on PMI-MN and beyond.
The PMI MN Chapter is honored to present Ruth Birkholz as our February 2024 Volunteer of the Month.
It is with great pleasure that I nominate Ruth Birkholz for this well-deserved recognition as volunteer of the month. Ruth has been volunteering with the chapter for several years and has served as the President for PMI MN chapter.
Ruth graciously took on the role of leading the Nominations Committee to facilitate the election of 2024 board members. Last year was usual and challenging as Ruth had to navigate and lead her team through the sudden and unexpected transitions on the board. They faced challenges with creativity and resilience. Despite the unforeseen turn of events Ruth rose to the occasion demonstrating exceptional leadership skills focusing on the task at hand, overcoming obstacles and ensuring the successful election of 2024 PMI MN board leaders.
Ruth’s commitment to PMI MN chapter mission and the ability to effectively coordinate and lead teams have significantly contributed to the success of our chapter. Ruth is a natural leader, providing guidance and mentorship to fellow volunteers including myself. Her willingness to share knowledge, lead, and support the growth of others reflects a true commitment to the success of PMI MN chapter. Ruth’s commitment, tireless efforts and dedication truly makes her a standout candidate for volunteer of the month.
It is my pleasure to recommend Ruth Birkholz for this well-deserved honor, and I am confident that her contributions will continue to inspire others and benefit PMI MN chapter.
- Cindy Ward, Vice Chair for Volunteer Services
Thank you, Ruth , for all that you have done for PMI MN !!!
The PMI MN Chapter is honored to present Maggie Pittelko as our January 2024 Volunteer of the Month. 
The PMI MN Chapter is honored to present Maggie Pittelko as our January 2024 Volunteer of the Month.
We are nominating Maggie for her exceptional leadership and can-do attitude. Maggie, since her role as the Chair of Volunteer Services, has stepped up with putting together an onboarding document and ensuring that processes are supported to ensure smooth transition for volunteers.
Maggie is very committed to PMI Minnesota and takes the initiative to ensure that each committee is fully staffed with volunteers. She started the VRMS cleaning project, to ensure that we have active and only open positions posted on our site. Maggie is always willing to make the process seamless for all volunteers and future candidates. Volunteer Services is very pleased to have a strong leader as Maggie stepping in the Chair role to continue to keep the chapter in the forefront of its goal and vision.
Thank you, Maggie , for all that you have done for PMI MN !!!
