Mark H. Russ was born in Naples, Fl., and raised in Hagerstown, Md. The oldest of four children, he learned leadership, organization, and getting the job done without excuses at an early age. Following high-school, he took a few years off to “find himself, gather his bearings, and figure out his next move.” During that period, he worked for Wells Fargo Home Mortgage, Citibank, and for the Arc of Washington County, a non-profit organization, that delivers services to individuals with intellectual disabilities.

He returned to school and graduated from Hagerstown Community College, cum laude, with an Associates of Arts degree in psychology. He then transferred to Hood College in Frederick, Md., where he earned a Bachelors of Arts degree in Communication Arts.

The tools that he acquired in college; strong writing and reading skills, speaking well publically, organization, and polished presentation, have helped him immensely in his career. He also says that a proficient knowledge in the professional use of social media,and updating technology skills are necessary to stay competitive in an ever- changing job market.

He is a self-described news junkie, and enjoys celebrity news, entertainment and political news, and anything related to both fashion and the British Monarchy. He also maintains a blog on fashion, style, and fashion history.

He credits his grandmother and aunt who instilled a love of reading, writing, learning, being aware of the world, and always keeping an open mind with his drive to live a happy successful life.

Mark currently resides in Hagerstown with his vivacious cocker spaniel Marie Antoinette.