Wynfred
Russell.

Wynfred Russell is a public health professional, nonprofit executive, and former Brooklyn Park City Council Member who has dedicated his career to improving the health, economic opportunity, and quality of life of Minnesota families. A respected advocate for equity and community development, he has spent more than 15 years working at the intersection of public health, public policy, and local government to deliver meaningful, lasting change.

As the founder of African Career, Education & Resources (ACER), Wynfred has led initiatives that have helped thousands of African immigrants and other underserved communities gain access to education, healthcare, housing, workforce development, and economic opportunity. During his leadership, ACER became one of Minnesota's leading organizations advancing health equity and community empowerment.

Wynfred currently serves as Board President of Resilient Cities and Communities (RCC), where he works with local governments across Minnesota to secure state and federal investments that strengthen infrastructure, promote climate resilience, and build more equitable communities.

His public health experience extends beyond Minnesota. Wynfred has led international public health initiatives, including Ebola response efforts in Liberia and polio eradication programs in Nigeria, giving him firsthand experience managing complex public health challenges and building partnerships that improve lives.

In 2018, Wynfred made history as the first Liberian American elected to the Brooklyn Park City Council. During his service, he earned a reputation for bringing people together, advocating for responsible government, and championing investments in public safety, housing, economic development, infrastructure, and community well-being.

Prior to serving on the City Council, he served on the Brooklyn Park Planning Commission, Human Rights Commission, Hennepin County Library Board, and numerous regional advisory boards dedicated to advancing equity and opportunity.

Wynfred holds master's degrees in public health and public policy and is widely recognized for his ability to unite diverse communities, solve complex problems, and deliver results through collaborative leadership. Whether working in City Hall, leading nonprofit organizations, or shaping public policy, his mission remains the same: to create stronger, healthier, and more prosperous communities where every family has the opportunity to succeed.