.128 Russell Bermel

Rusty is a true force of good in this world, using every bit of his superhuman-like energy and positivity to change the lives of so many people for the better. We met backstage during an event in DC and I was instantly struck by his ability to be both laser-focused on the (many) tasks at hand and kind to everyone in the process, even down to a volunteer holding the door open for him. From that moment on I knew I wanted to be around his infectious presence, his compassionate soul, and what I would find out about over time; his truly wonderful sense of humor.

It really isn’t easy to articulate how fabulous of a person Rusty is. He’s wildly intelligent and eloquent (in multiple languages!) and he cares so deeply about those in his life, from the colleagues he sees every day, to his friends and dedicated family. He somehow manages to traverse the world while simultaneously checking in on us, and he always comes in at the right moment with a superb joke or hysterical remark. Rusty makes people feel appreciated, listened to and encouraged, and he does so almost effortlessly. Over the last 8 (!) years of knowing him, I’ve been consistently grateful for his generosity, his time, his smile, and his genuine friendship.

Rusty, thank you for your unwavering support of me and my projects and career, and thank you for always taking the time to chat, no matter what is happening in your world. Thank you for always making me laugh, so very much, and for making the world a better place just by you being in it. Thank you for the many evenings of delicious food, including the many gallons of rice milk. Thank you for your out-of-this-world personality and for being such a true joy and pleasure to be around. Thank you for using your talents, empathy, and courage to help others and connect equally as amazing people around important causes and initiatives. Thank you for being so lovely and good as a human being. Rusty, I’m so grateful for you and always will be. Thank you for being you.

-BD