Lufkin, TX: The T.L.L. Temple Foundation announces the appointment of Dr. James Henry Russell to its Board of Trustees. Dr. Russell brings a wealth of experience and expertise in finance, education, and leadership to the foundation’s mission of alleviating poverty and creating opportunity in East Texas communities. Dr. Russell’s election as a trustee caps the end of a nomination and vetting process that spanned six months.
A native of Texarkana, Dr. Russell currently serves as the Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer at The Arnold Companies, where he guides financial strategy and operations. Prior to this, he held the position of Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer at BWI Companies, Inc. from January 2019 to March 2021.
Dr. Russell’s dedication to education is evident through his extensive career in public and higher education. He served as President of Texarkana College from June 2011 to December 2018, where he spearheaded initiatives to enhance student success and academic excellence, which received national recognition. Prior to his tenure at Texarkana College, Dr. Russell held various roles at Texarkana Independent School District, including Superintendent, Assistant Superintendent, Deputy Superintendent, and Chief Financial Officer, from August 1994 to May 2007. Dr. Russell is active in his church and community, volunteering his time in a variety of roles including President of the Woodlawn Cemetery board of directors, Treasurer of the ARKLATEX 100 Club, and board member of AR-TX Regional Economic Development Inc. He is a recipient of the Texarkana Chamber of Commerce C. E. Palmer Award for long-term commitment to civic service. Dr. Russell and his wife Rosemary have been married 32 years and have three adult children.
“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Russell to the Board of Trustees of the T. L. L. Temple Foundation,” said Wynn Rosser, President and CEO of the foundation. “His extensive experience in finance, education, and his community leadership roles will be invaluable as we pursue our mission to work alongside rural communities to make a positive impact in East Texas.”
“His commitment to excellence and dedication to serving others make him a valuable addition to the foundation’s board,” said W. Temple Webber, III, Board Chairman. “As a Texarkana native, Dr. Russell is a natural fit. Generations of the T.L.L. Temple family called Texarkana home. This is where the family started and grew its forest products business that ultimately enabled the creation of the foundation.”
Dr. Russell’s career accomplishments are augmented by his academic achievements, including a Doctor of Education degree and designation as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA).
As a member of the foundations’ board, Dr. Russell will play an important governance role in guiding the Foundation’s strategic direction, ensuring the effective stewardship of resources, and advancing initiatives that promote education, health, human services, arts and culture and conservation in East Texas.
