USMS Award Recipient

U.S. Masters Swimming Dorothy Donnelly Service Award



Recipient: Katherine Olson
Year: 2025
LMSC: South Dakota

Katherine Olson, of the South Dakota LMSC (SDLMSC) began volunteering in 2014. Katherine created the first website for SDLMSC and kept swimmers connected through regular email updates. She organized virtual swims, social events, and helped lead the Sioux Falls Prairie Masters swim team - all with a genuine commitment to bringing people together.Katherine erved in nearly every capacity within the LMSC, including Chair (2022–2025), Vice Chair, Top Ten Recorder, and meet co-director. She’s also was active nationally – she attended USMS annual meetings, served on the LMSC Development Committee, and participating in Volunteer Relays. In 2023, Katherine created and maintained SDLMSC’s first official record book. This was a mind-boggling undertaking. Katherine deserved the Dorothy Donnelly Service Award - she was a  volunteer who made the SDLMSC thrive. She made swimming fun and her goal was to create an environment dedicated to fitness. Her joy and commitment to the sport showed in her unwavering and exceptional kindness.