An industry veteran, Russ brings more than 20 years of professional hospitality experience to his role as Director of Hospitality.

Russ joined the Foundation in 2016 and served as the General Manager of the Boar's Head Resort for six years. Russ previously served as General Manager for the 6,000-acre Callaway Gardens Resort, located in Pine Mountain, Georgia. During his tenure at Callaway, Russ focused on building a strong management team and increasing guest satisfaction. Under his leadership, the resort saw increased profits, consistently positive guest survey results, and higher guest return rates. He also led several key renovation projects.

Prior to Callaway, he worked at several luxury resorts in the south, including Hilton Key Largo Resort in Key Largo, FL; Exclusive Resorts on Kiawah Island, SC; and Wild Dunes Resort & Spa in Isle of Palms, SC.

A native of Michigan, Russ earned his bachelor’s degree in hospitality and tourism management from Grand Valley State University in Grand Rapids. Additionally, he is certified as a Certified Hotel Administrator (CHA) by the American Hotel and Lodging Association and in Hotel Management and Owner Relations by Cornell University. He also serves on the Charlottesville Albemarle Convention and Visitors Bureau board, as well as the vice-chair for the Virginia Restaurant, Lodging, and Travel Association.