Hollywood, MD – November 19, 2024 – J.D. Russell, a proud graduate of Leonardtown High School and the Dr. James A. Forrest Career and Technology Center, achieves a monumental milestone by becoming the first former American police officer to travel to space. Tied as the 669th human to cross the Kármán Line—the boundary that defines outer space—Russell is set to leave a lasting impact not just on space exploration, but also on his home state of Maryland. 

As part of his groundbreaking journey, Russell will carry seeds harvested from the grounds of Historic Sotterley, a National Historic Landmark in St. Mary’s County. These seeds are part of an experimental initiative to study the effects of space travel on plant growth. Upon his return, the seeds will be replanted at Sotterley, connecting his mission to the preservation of local heritage and advancing agricultural science. 

“This experiment symbolizes the growth and resilience of our community. It’s an honor to contribute to both science and the preservation of Historic Sotterley,” Russell said. 

Before embarking on his entrepreneurial ventures, J.D. Russell served as a police officer, where he dedicated himself to protecting his community. After his law enforcement career, Russell founded InfoHOA, a leader in technology-based community management solutions. InfoHOA has revolutionized the way homeowner associations operate, streamlining processes and enhancing community engagement. 

Russell’s philanthropic work is at the heart of his legacy. In memory of his late daughter, Victoria, he founded the Victoria Russell Foundation, which is dedicated to supporting children’s education and providing assistance to the families of first responders.  The foundation partners with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, an initiative that inspires a love of reading by gifting books free of charge to children. Through this partnership, the foundation has enriched the lives of countless young readers, ensuring that Victoria’s legacy continues to uplift communities. 

From Hollywood, MD, to the edge of space, J.D. Russell’s life exemplifies the power of ambition, service, and innovation. His historic space flight and his efforts to connect this mission to Historic Sotterley underscore his dedication to community, heritage, and science.

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J.D. Russell is a Hollywood, MD, native and a graduate of Leonardtown High School and the Dr. James A. Forrest Career and Technology Center. He’s a serial entrepreneur and founder of InfoHOA, a leader in technology-driven community management solutions. He also founded the Victoria Russell Foundation, which supports children’s education and first responder families.