HONOREE 2023

SUPERPOWER

Empathy I am an introvert.

SOMETHING MOST DO NOT KNOW ABOUT ME

Russell Benford

Vice President Government Relations, Americas Royal Caribbean Group

Russell Benford is a highly respected leader who has served in significant roles in the public and private sector. He has also distinguished himself for years in community and civic affairs. In his current role with Royal Caribbean, his professional footprint and responsibilities has expanded internationally into the Caribbean.

Russell Benford currently serves as Vice President of Government Relations, Americas, for Royal Caribbean Group. Russell is responsible for the Group’s government relations throughout North, Central, and South America and the Caribbean.

Russell’s professional experience includes more than 20 years in government. Most recently, he served as Deputy Mayor of Miami- Dade County. During his six-year tenure, he had direct oversight of Police, Fire Rescue, Corrections and Rehabilitation, Medical Examiner, Public Housing and Community Development, Community Action and Human Services, and Juvenile Services.

Before his role at Miami-Dade County, Russell held several leadership roles within Florida, including City Manager of the City of North Miami and City Administrator of the City of West Park. Mr. Benford also served as Village Manager of Hawthorn Woods, Illinois.

Russell is actively involved in community organizations, serving on the Board of Directors of the Jessie Trice Community Health System Foundation, FIU Center for Leadership, Achieve Miami, and the Bahamas Feeding Network. He is also a member of the Orange Bowl Committee, 100 Black Men of South Florida, and the 5,000 Role Models of Excellence Project.

Alfred Young, my great grandfather

PERSON(S) YOU WOULD MOST LIKE TO MEET AWARDS

Organizations

He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Oberlin College and a Master’s degree in Public Affairs from the University of Texas at Austin, where he concentrated on Public Administration and Management. He was named a Woodrow Wilson Public Policy and International Studies Fellow.

WORDS THAT INSPIRE ME:

“Have a vision of excellence, a dream of success, and work like hell.”

-Dr. Samuel DuBois Cook

Congratulates all of tonight’s honorees for your outstanding accomplishments and leadership.

SAVE THE DATE

06.06.23