Thernon & Selma Olsen - Sherman Gallery of Honor

B.J. Palmer often said, “We never know how far reaching something we may think, say, or do today will affect the lives of millions tomorrow.” These words have inspired many individuals in the chiropractic profession to persevere through difficulties and rise to greater heights in bringing chiropractic care to a world that desperately needs it. This inspired legacy was clearly demonstrated in the life and deeds of Dr. Theron Olsen of Sandy, Utah.

With Dr. Olsen’s passing on September 1, 2005, the chiropractic profession lost an exceptionally dedicated leader. Dr. Olsen led by example. He lived his convictions, kept his promises, left an enduring legacy and became a role model for the chiropractic leaders of tomorrow. He is survived by his wife Selma and their five children, 26 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.

Dr. Olsen, a 1941 graduate of the Palmer School of Chiropractic, was a friend and admirer of Dr. Lyle Sherman, namesake of Sherman College of Straight Chiropractic. Long-time supporters of the college, Selma and Theron Olsen became Sherman College Regents in 1982. In his own words, Dr. Olsen said, “Selma and I wanted to give back to chiropractic for what it has meant in our lives, and we feel that Sherman College is the right place to receive our support — a place where straight chiropractic is practiced.”

He went on to say, “I pledged to Dr. Sherman that I would support this college and I will continue to support Sherman College for the rest of my life.” The Olsens not only kept that promise, but also set an example for the others when they funded the construction of a 5,000-square-foot brick and stone facility, dedicated in May 2000 as the Theron and Selma Olsen Building.

The Olsen Building, which was named Building of the Year for 2000 at the Metal Building Contractors and Erectors Conference in Keystone, CO, houses the fitness center, a large classroom, a warm and welcoming lobby and the Offices of Student Affairs. Anyone who has used the fitness center or attended a class in the Olsen Building owes a debt of gratitude to the Olsens. The Olsens committed their support to the college because of their admiration for Dr. Lyle Sherman and everything that he stood for.

While still a student at the Palmer School, Theron Olsen served an internship at the B.J. Palmer Chiropractic Research Clinic. There he was privileged to learn x-ray and clinical procedures under the guidance of Dr. Lyle Sherman, assistant director of the unique facility.

After his graduation, Dr. Olsen practiced in Salt Lake City, Utah, where he distinguished himself as a professional and a citizen. He served as a state representative to the International Chiropractors Association (ICA) for 30 years. A strong advocate for straight
chiropractic, Dr. Olsen later became a member of the Federation of Straight Chiropractors and Organizations. A long-term member of the Utah Chiropractic Association, Dr. Olsen was honored to serve as the organization’s president.

Among the many accolades bestowed upon him, Dr. Olsen received distinguished service awards from both Palmer College and the ICA and was named “Chiropractor of the Year” by Sherman College in 1986. He and Selma were inducted as charter members into the Sherman College Heritage Society in 2002. The Heritage Society distinguishes those supporters who have donated more than $100,000 to Sherman College.

B.J. Palmer also said (frequently to chiropractors and supporters), “We love you because you love all things we love” and “Get the big idea, all else follows.” Dr. Olsen certainly got the big idea, and he demonstrated his love and commitment to the chiropractic profession. Speaking of his involvement in chiropractic, Olsen said, “My parents were both chiropractors and I’ve lived with chiropractic all my life.” This chiropractic family connection continues into another generation as the Olsens’ grandson Ryan Nelson is currently enrolled at Sherman College.

Sherman College sent the Olsens’ close friends, Dr. Gordon and Mrs. Helen McPike Brown, to represent the college at Dr. Olsen’s funeral. Mrs. Brown spoke at the service, acknowledging their special friendship and describing how the Olsens were an integral part of the Sherman College community.

Sherman College President Dr. Jerry Hardee echoed Dr. Olsen’s commitment to chiropractic.

“When I first arrived on campus as the new president, there were some who doubted that a non-D.C. could effectively serve as the CEO of this great institution,” he said. “Soon thereafter, a gentleman walked up to me and introduced himself. ‘My name is Theron Olsen,’ he said, ‘and I have always supported Sherman College. Now that you have been chosen to lead Sherman College, you will always have my support.’

“That was a very important vote of confidence from a highly respected leader in the profession, and I will never forget how much his assurance and support have meant to me personally and to Sherman College.”

By Dr. Myron Brown in Straight from Sherman Winter 2005