Deborah Russell

Meeting of November 17, 2010 - Impact Of Economy On Older Workers

Deborah Russell is the Director of Workforce Issues at AARP, the primary national resource on issues addressing the economic and retirement security of individuals 50+. This includes working with the business community to create employment opportunities that are fair, flexible, and that capitalize on the wealth of knowledge and expertise mature workers bring to today's workplace.

As Director, Ms. Russell leads a team that focuses on issues effecting individuals 50+ by developing information, programs, technical assistance, and practical research. In addition, she established the Best Employers for Workers Over 50 award which recognizes companies that demonstrate exemplary policies and practices for the 50+ workforce. Best Employers awardees receive national media attention and are featured annually in AARP The Magazine.

Ms. Russell has issue expertise in aging workforce and employment issues and has appeared on national television programs such as CNN, CNBC, Good Morning America CBS Morning Show and CBS Evening News and is frequently quoted in national and local newspapers.

Ms. Russell is the 2007 recipient of the ASA Leadership Award for outstanding contributions in the field of aging awarded by the American Society on Aging. In 2010 she was awarded the Dorothy Bauer Award for outstanding leadership and a commitment to the employment of mature workers by the National Council on Aging.

Ms. Russell has her degree in Political Science from the University of Maryland.