Leadership

Heather Russell

Founder & Chief Executive Officer

Heather Russell is the mother of Ethan, who has Floating-Harbor syndrome and cerebral palsy, and the founder of Floating Harbor.

A licensed therapist and former behavioral specialist, Heather brings both professional training and hard-won personal experience to her work. When her son’s school district couldn’t meet his needs, she took them to federal court and secured a settlement that funded Ethan’s education through his senior year. She then founded Russell Academy, a registered private school, so Ethan could be taught in a way that works for him.

Heather has continued to advocate before the San Diego Unified Board of Education, the California Department of Education, and state legislators. She founded Floating Harbor so other families don’t have to fight alone.

She lives in San Diego with her family.