Dr. Russell has lived in Tampa since 2003; prior to that she lived in New York City. She was born and raised in the Midwest. Her undergraduate degree is from Bradley University in Psychology, her graduate degrees in Psychology are from Bowling Green State University, and she has participated in the Graduate Certificate Program in Non-Profit Management in Innovation at the University of Tampa. Her certifications include Girls Circle Facilitator and Trainer, Advancing Youth Development, and Creating a Safe School Climate.