We are thrilled to share a significant milestone in the life of Matthew C. Russell, an extraordinary individual whose dedication to the law has spanned over 50 years.
Attorney Matthew C. Russell's life has been defined by his commitment to law, community service, and family. He graduated from Florida A&M University with a Bachelor of Science degree and earned his Juris Doctorate from Florida State University College of Law, practicing law in Florida since 1973. Before his legal career, he taught high school mathematics at Roosevelt High School for 13 years.
As an attorney and civic leader in Riviera Beach, FL, Mr. Russell has held numerous esteemed legal positions, including Assistant City Attorney for the City of Riviera Beach and a private attorney specializing in personal injury, civic and municipal law, and general practice. His roles as Assistant City Attorney included serving as Attorney for the General Employee's Civil Service Board, Police Civil Service Board, Attorney for Code Enforcement, Prosecutor for the City of Riviera Beach, and Police General Counsel. Since 2013, he has also been the general counsel for the Riviera Beach Housing Authority.
Beyond his legal career, Mr. Russell has achieved remarkable success in weightlifting. In 1965, he made history as the first African American to win the Florida State Light Heavyweight title. In 1966, he won the Middle Heavyweight Champion title for Florida and became the first African American to compete in and win the Southeast United States Title for Olympic Weightlifting as a middle heavyweight. During law school at Florida State University, he won the collegiate weightlifting title of middle heavyweight for two consecutive years, representing the university in the Florida Collegiate Weightlifting competition. In his first year of holding the title, he was voted the Outstanding Collegiate Weightlifter.
Despite facing numerous challenges and hardships, Mr. Russell's resilience and determination are evident in his accomplishments. He completed a three-year law program in just two years and three months, but due to familial and professional obligations, he was unable to participate in his law school graduation. Last month, we honored Attorney Russell with a special graduation celebration, recognizing his lifelong pursuit of justice. His journey embodies resilience, faith, and unwavering commitment, and the ceremony marks the rightful recognition of his achievements.
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