Nonah Olesen, PhD

Research Director

As a Research Director at Povaddo, Nonah Olessen specializes in finding answers to difficult questions. Nonah works with a range of clients, from Fortune 500 companies to national associations, managing research projects end-to-end. From upfront discovery conversations to high-quality deliverables to thoughtful and engaging presentations, Nonah excels at providing clients with valuable insights, strategic recommendations, and great client service. She manages projects ranging from quantitative surveys to in-depth interviews to focus groups. She has experience conducting studies with a range of populations, from c-suite executives and industry experts to everyday consumers. Nonah truly enjoys helping clients at all levels of the research process and offers a unique perspective on any project.

Prior to her work at Povaddo, Nonah completed a doctorate in experimental psychology at the University of Louisville, where she was a University Fellow, and a master’s degree in experimental psychology at Missouri State University. With over a decade of combined academic and industry research experience, as well as being a Burke-trained focus group moderator, Nonah brings a wealth of knowledge to her role as a Research Director.

Nonah is originally from Ponca, Arkansas. She enjoys canoeing, kayaking, hiking, and reading.