Born, raised and educated in Northwest Indiana, Julie's life experiences, problem solving skills and servant leader attitude make her the best choice as your state representative. The second oldest of 7 children, Julie worked her way through college as a cake decorator at Glen Park Bakery and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Indiana University Northwest. Employed at Ad-com Advertising in Crown Point for 9 years, she quickly earned the position of art director. Branching out to start VIA Marketing in 1987, Julie grew the company to 15 employees. In 2007 the recession hit hard and just like most small companies, she learned the pain of letting good employees go. Strength of character is built during hard times. Julie's wisdom, compassion and resilience serve the citizens of Indiana well.
Married to Ron Olthoff since 1986. Ron is a union electrician for Land O' Frost for 22 years. Serving as elders for CrossPoint Church and before taking office, Julie was their financial controller (2006-2014). They have participated in 8 mission trips to Argentina and 1 to Brazil and 2 to Panama City, Panama.
