City Star of the Month is a new initiative launched by City of Bismarck staff. The program rotates alphabetically through city departments, highlighting an employee who demonstrates dedication to public service and exemplary performance. Honorees are nominated by their department director or supervisor based on their merit and contributions in their role.
The City Star of the Month for Administration is Whitnie Olsen, Senior Administrative Assistant. Whitnie has been with the City of Bismarck for 9 years and 9 months.
In her role, Whitnie manages the business that occurs in and through the Administration Department. She leads office efforts in developing processes for and issuing licenses and permits for various types of businesses in our community. She also coordinates with all departments to ensure documents, logistics, and communications are complete for the City Commission, Vision Fund, Human Relations Committee, Animal Advisory Board, and other task forces or committees as needed.
Coworkers describe Whitnie as someone who goes above and beyond. You will never hear her say, “That’s the way we have always done it.” She is a problem solver who looks for ways to improve processes in order to deliver services more efficiently to citizens.
Whitnie also makes a difference in the workplace environment. She has the ability to stay calm during stressful events and continue to serve with a positive attitude. She focuses on the positives, assumes the best in people, and works with staff and citizens so that all have a positive experience. These attributes help create a work environment that is positive, service-focused, and enjoyable to be part of.
“I have had the pleasure of working alongside Whitnie for a little over a year now. Whitnie is truly a model of what civil servant leadership looks like and exactly the type of employee that helps build the type of culture that we need in our organization,” said Doug Wiles, Assistant City Administrator.