Augusto Russell, a member of the Greater Hartford Church of Christ, recently won the "Professional Agent of the Year" award from PIA National. This is the highest national award of distinction by this organization. "I believe he is one of the finest human beings I have come across in my career," said Thomas Leonardi, former Insurance Commissioner of Connecticut. "He genuinely cares about people, his community, and his profession."
I met Augusto over 13 years ago, when he moved to Hartford from Boston. At that time he was a fund-raising director for HOPE worldwide. I've watched him struggle with the major career change as he returned to insurance, and eventually emerge as the primary partner of his insurance agency. He is certainly an important businessman in Hartford, and is respected by other business leaders because of his involvement in the Rotary Club and other community service activities. Augusto conducts all his business affairs with the highest regard to integrity and second-mile customer service. And, he is always reaching out to the business and political leaders he meets.
Augusto is supported by his devoted wife Suzanne, and has faithfully stood by her side through years of a disabling disease. The Russells adopted their son Joey from the Philippines when he was small. Augusto has a close relationship with Joey, who is now a senior in high school, and has been a disciple for almost two years. Augusto has faithfully served the Hartford Church in many capacities through the years. He has helped raise funds for HOPEww in Hartford, and been involved in many community service projects. He currently serves as a deacon and teacher, most recently leading Old and New Testament Survey classes. It was certainly no surprise to anyone that Augusto was given this very prestigious "Insurance Agent of the Year" award.
National Underwriter cover story | 2016 PIA National Awards