Biography
Meet Adam Thomas Russell
Learn more about Adam's background, community involvement, and professional experience.
Biography
I was born in Welland in 1976, with a mix of Irish and Dutch parents. My dad was born in Port Robinson, my mom in Elst, a small village in central Netherlands. I have two older sisters, and 6 nieces/nephews. We grew up in Dain City, a small hamlet in south Welland, nestled between two canals and which gave me my first sense of community and belonging.
I met my wife at McMaster University, where we both graduated in 1999. I worked at Pepsi after graduation and was hired at Ontario Lottery Corporation in 2000. My wife and I started visiting Beamsville in 2005, and bought our forever home in Lincoln in 2006. In the 20 years since we have raised two beautiful girls, and met many wonderful friends in the community.
I wanted to run for council in 2014, but our girls were still very young. In 2018 I registered and haven't looked back. My 8 years on council has been very fulfilling. With any role, there are ebbs and flows, but overall I think I have made a positive difference. I think at the end of the day, that is what every public servant should strive for. To Make a difference.
Community Involvement
- I have coached various teams as our girls grew up.
- Board member on the Lincoln Public Library from 2018-2022
- Board member for the Beamsville BIA (2022-present)
- Board member, and current VP of the Employment Help Centre (2020-present)
- Board member of Penn Western Holdco (2022-present)
- Active member of the YMCA
Educational experience
McMaster University BA Social Science 1999
McMaster University MCE Diploma Business Admin 2025
Professional Experience
Pepsi Cola Account Management 1999-2000
Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation Lottery Sales 2000-2003 Account Management 2003-2012 Charitable Gaming 2012-2026
Lincoln Council Member Ward 1 elected official 2018-2026 Deputy Mayor 4x
Interesting Lifelong facts
- My first real job was at the South Niagara Rowing Club in Welland. I started working regattas at age 9, and eventually became a certified rowing coach at 18, my first job after highschool.
- I played football at McMaster as an Offensive Lineman, #68.
- I worked at a Sawmill during my university years in Port Colborne where I learned what hard work was, and a few choice Polish words.
- My favourite job was the 3 summers I spent at the Country Basket Greenhouse in Niagara Falls in my early 20's. It was owned by a wonderful family who taught me the beauty and peace that you find in a greenhouse first thing in the morning.
See What Adam Is Focused On
Adam’s platform priorities for the Town of Lincoln are published as they are confirmed.