Russ, the daughter of of Marilynn and Roger Russ of Ottumwa, Iowa, received a Bachelor of Science degree in agricultural biochemistry and a math minor from Iowa State University, Ames, in 2002. She has attended Purdue since 2002. Her co-advisors are Dr. Karen M. Haberstroh and Dr. Ann E. Rundell. Her career goals are to contribute to the advancement of medical knowledge and treatment strategies as a biomedical engineer, focusing on ischemia and/or kidney research and the prevention of renal failure.

The P.E.O. Scholar Awards were established in 1991 by P.E.O. International to provide substantial awards to women in the United States and Canada who are pursuing a graduate degree or a terminal degree, or who are engaged in graduate research. In addition to recognizing and encouraging excellence in higher education, the awards provide partial support for study and research for women who will make significant contributions in their varied fields of endeavor. Priority is given to women who are well established in their graduate programs or advanced research. P.E.O. International is a philanthropic, educational organization based in Des Moines that encourages and supports women to help them realize their potential in any endeavor. From its inception in 1869, the P.E.O. Sisterhood has taken an active role in the promotion of educational opportunities for women. Education continues to be the organization¹s primary philanthropy.