Outstanding Alumni - 2006
Carol (Johnson) Russell
Bemidji State University Graduate 1974
Carol Russell earned a Bachelors of Science degree in 1974, from BSU in Mass Communication. She later earned a Master of Science degree in Communications Management from St. Cloud State University and completed the Executive Leadership Program at the University of Minnesota's Carlson School of Management. Carol co-founded Russell Herder, a marketing communications firm headquartered in Minneapolis, and has served as CEO for over 22 years. Previously, she served as journalist, freelance writer, owner of a private consultancy practice and, for seven years, worked within Bemidji State University's News and Publications office. She also co-founded an e-business firm that, before its sale, was named an Ad Age Top 100 U.S. Interactive Firm. Under her leadership, Russell Herder has earned national and international recognition for strategic and creative excellence. She was personally involved in project work that garnered awards from the World Media Festival, O'Toole's, American Advertising Federation, Public Relations Society of America, Minnesota Direct Marketing Association and more. Most recently, she led the project team that received the National Broadcast Award of the Year from the National Council on Problem Gambling. Carol serves on the Minnesota Thunder Advisory Board (Minnesota's professional soccer team) and has served in leadership positions with the following organizations: Brainerd Family YMCA, Brainerd Family YMCA Foundation, BSU Foundation, First Congregational Church of Brainerd, Brainerd Area Chamber of Commerce, plus various arts organizations and private corporate boards. Throughout its existence, the firm she co-owns has consistently provided financial and probono service support to a multitude of organizations and causes including Bemidji State Univeristy, high school creativity scholarships, Relay for Life, mental health issues, youth sports leadership, child abuse and more. Carol and her husband, Brian Phelps, have been host parents to 10 international exchange students ranging in age from 10 to 23, from countries including Brazil, Germany, Sweden and Ireland, and still maintains close relationships with many of them. Carol and Brian have three grown children, Nick ('05 BSU graduate), Joe and Anna, and make their home in Brainerd.