Russ is the Project Manager for NIU STEAM in the Division of Outreach, Engagement and Regional Development. Russ oversees multiple adventures within the division including NIU’s STEM Fest.

He is the author of multiple poetry collections including his most recent, Firefly Conspiracies. As a playwright, Russ has written and directed four world premieres. Russ is a National Poetry Slam poet and 2019 Rockford Certified Poetry Slam Champion.

Russ is the creator and co-host of The Gateway, a podcast exploring innovation, technology, and humanity.