RAF’S JEFF RUSSELL HONORED AT AOPA HOOVER AWARDS RECEPTION

RAF Director Jeff Russell was honored with AOPA’s 2025 Laurence P. Sharples Award at their annual Hoover awards reception on March 19 in the historic Terminal A Lobby at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.

AOPA Chairman Darren Pleasance introduced Russell, saying, “This is AOPA’s most important award, named after AOPA’s first chairman, and recognizes someone for their extraordinary contributions to General Aviation.” Accepting the plaque, Russell modestly claimed that the award was really earned by the entire RAF, thanks to many other volunteers within the organization. He returned to his seat to a standing ovation.

“I could not be more proud of our fellow RAF Director Jeff who was recognized by AOPA. We can all be proud of his many accomplishments,” RAF Chairman John McKenna said after attending the reception. “Jeff has done enormous work moving the RAF mission along on both public and private lands. He’s a ‘one man army’ when it comes to getting things done.” 

After a long career in manufacturing, Russell got involved with the RAF first as Wisconsin Liaison, then accepted a position on the board. He is credited with preserving Cornucopia Airport by enlisting town leadership and volunteers to make improvements to serve visiting pilots. Each year, hundreds of aircraft enjoy parking on its turf, camping, sightseeing around Lake Superior, and taking advantage of the town’s warm hospitality. Along with Jeff’s efforts in Wisconsin, he works with local volunteers in Alaska on their airstrip projects. Jeff led the RAF’s advocacy effort of working with the FAA on advancing turf operating areas. 

Russell flies his Super Cub around the lower 48, Canada, and Alaska on either Bushwheels, floats, or skis, typically to work parties, or speaking to groups promoting RAF support. He has worked to protect many backcountry aviation destinations.

“I’m blown away by the company I’m in. The previous recipients are truly amazing people,” Russell said after learning he’d been selected for the honor. See AOPA’s two-minute video about Jeff and his love of flying and giving back. 

RAF supporter Dan Schwinn of Avidyne won the Richard G. McSpadden GA Safety award for his significant contributions to aviation safety and modernization.

View AOPA’s awards presentation to these honorees, with Jeff’s award starting at 3:25 in the video.

Submitted March 28, 2025
By Carmine Mowbray