About Us
Olmsted County has a long-standing commitment to environmental sustainability, innovation, and community well-being. For decades, the County has led forward-thinking efforts in waste reduction, recycling, and energy recovery, always seeking creative ways to engage residents in building a more sustainable future.
In 2025, Commissioner Laurel Podulke-Smith envisioned an artist residency that could bridge the worlds of art, education, and sustainability, turning waste into inspiration. She shared the idea with local professional artist Jessalyn Finch, a longtime collaborator in community projects and creative initiatives. Together, they saw the potential to create something truly unique: a program where artists could work directly with reclaimed materials to spark public dialogue about sustainability and creative reuse.
With the County’s support, Jessalyn developed the concept into what is now the Transforming Trash Artist-in-Residence Program. Olmsted County proudly serves as the program’s host and initial funding partner for its 2026 pilot year. This collaboration between local government and the arts represents a rare and powerful partnership, one that demonstrates how creativity can drive environmental change, connect communities, and inspire new ways of thinking about what we throw away.
Our Team
Jessalyn Finch
As Executive Director of the Transforming Trash Artist-in-Residence Program, Jessalyn Finch brings together more than a decade of project management experience and a professional art practice rooted in sustainability and community engagement. She holds a Master’s degree in Project Management and has led projects and events for organizations including Mayo Clinic, Threshold Arts, and more. As a conceptual artist working with installation, performance, and public participation, she has exhibited nationally and participated in multiple residencies. Her combined experience as an artist and administrator gives her firsthand insight into the structure, resources, and support artists need to thrive.
Executive Director
Commissioner Podulke-Smith
Elected to the Olmsted County Board of Commissioners in 2022 Laurel Podulke-Smith takes up the work of local government as her life’s legacy. She is a longtime community leader, an avid volunteer, and serves on numerous non-profit and community boards. Laurel draws from her background in education, healthcare, and organizational leadership to perform the role of elected official with humility, curiosity, and determination. Laurel grew up in an artistic household and is a life-long advocate for the performing and visual arts. Her late father, former Olmsted County Commissioner, Mike Podulke, was a stained-glass artist and an early adopter of creative reuse. Laurel imagines Mike would be especially proud of the Olmsted County Transforming Trash Artist in Residency program.
Olmsted County Liaison