Linfield University honors Superintendent Russell

The award is presented every four years to community members who have a positive impact on the community, particularly when faced challenges of injustice or inequality.

In light of the extraordinary situation of the year and in recognition of their extraordinary service to our local community, Linfield University officers selected two recipients for the 2021 award – Maryalice Russell, superintendent of the McMinnville School District, and Lindsey Manfrin, director of Yamhill County Health and Human Services.

Russell has served as the superintendent of the McMinnville School District since 2002 and is retiring in June after 19 years of serving the district. After starting in the classroom, she went on to serve as an elementary school principal, middle school principal and associate superintendent.

In 2013, she was named Oregon Superintendent of the Year and a finalist for National Superintendent of the Year. During her tenure, she has led the district to consistently record one of the state’s highest graduation rates.

“The officers of the university have selected Dr. Russell as one of this year’s recipient for her work in creating and leading McMinnville’s excellent school district, leading with vision, reducing barriers and creating an educational environment where every student can achieve success,” said Susan Hopp, Linfield vice president for student affairs and admission. “Dr. Russell’s long tenure in McMinnville and her national prominence as an educator has served both the city of McMinnville and Linfield University well.”

The award was established by Linfield alumnus Donald McInnes ’37 and his wife, Kathleen, to honor Thomas and Emily Hardie, who ministered “with love, compassion and integrity” to the McMinnville’s Congregation of United Methodist Church from 1930-1935 and to Linfield’s student body.

A video of the 2021 Hardie Award presentation can be found on the Linfield University YouTube page.

June 11, 2021