Russell Chapman

community partner

BIOGRAPHY

Russell has dedicated his career to the intersections of art, education, and community. His journey has taken him from serving as a citizen journalist abroad to teaching in classrooms, leading martial arts sessions in community education settings, and managing community-based programs in the nonprofit sector in his most recent position as a nonprofit program manager. Through these experiences, he has seen firsthand how art—in all its forms, including martial arts—can be a powerful tool for self-expression, personal growth, and community transformation.

Deeply committed to storytelling and collective learning, Russell believes that community education and engagement are key to sparking meaningful social change. His work often centers on creating spaces where people can learn from one another, share their lived experiences, and build solidarity across lines of difference.

As a father of a biracial, mixed-Hmong heritage child, Russell’s passion for culturally responsive education has only grown stronger. He is especially dedicated to advocating for equitable and inclusive learning environments that reflect and celebrate the diverse communities of the Twin Cities—ensuring that all children see themselves represented in the stories, lessons, and opportunities around them.

LINKS