Amy Raschella-Oliver ’92 & Russ Oliver ’93
For Amy Raschella-Oliver ’92 and Russ Oliver ’93, a long history of giving back to Whitman College began with honoring and celebrating the life of a dear friend and classmate, Jill Carlstrom ’93, who died suddenly while teaching in the Japan Exchange Program in 1993. The Olivers have nurtured and grown the reach of the Connie Jill Carlstrom Endowed Award in Japanese Studies as the foundation of their giving to Whitman. Within their 24 years of giving, they have also directly supported multiple academic areas and programs, including Astronomy, Chemistry and the Freimann Visiting Artist Endowment.
Amy graduated from Whitman with a degree in Chemistry and a minor in Math. She was a member of Delta Delta Delta and was frequently seen behind the counter at the Harper Joy Theatre box office—with an occasional onstage appearance.
Russ earned a degree in Psychology with a minor in Music. He befriended many Whitties as he escorted them home as a Yellow Jacket student security escort. Russ also sang as a member of Whitman’s Chamber Choir, Chorale, and the campus barbershop quartet fondly named The Whitman Sampler.
The Olivers reside in Bothell, Washington, and are the proud parents of two sons, Brendan and Coleson.
Fifty Under 50 is a new initiative recognizing emerging leaders in philanthropy. Members are graduates of the class of 1989 or later and have made gifts and pledges exceeding $50,000 to the campaign.