In February 2021, Lee Russell’s husband, William “Bill” Russell, died in a tragic workplace incident. The devastating loss of her partner, shortly after their first grandchild was born, changed Lee’s life forever. Today, she channels her grief into action, sharing Bill’s story publicly to raise awareness of workplace hazards and to ensure that no other family endures a similar loss.
Lee has built a lifelong career in early childhood education and adult learning. She currently serves as a program consultant with the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development, where she collaborates on provincial policy, program development, and sector training. Her work emphasizes inclusion, equity, and quality service delivery — values that also shape her approach to health and safety advocacy.
Lee is a trained public speaker with Threads of Life and has shared her family’s story before national and regional audiences. She is committed to promoting prevention, encouraging accountability, and exploring how WorkSafeNB can continue to evolve in support of injured workers and their families.
As a member of the Injured Worker Advisory Committee, Lee brings both professional policy insight and lived experience. She is passionate about meaningful consultation and creating space for families to be heard. Through her involvement with WorkSafeNB, Lee hopes to Bill’s memory and contribute to safer, more compassionate workplaces across New Brunswick.
