Board Member Spotlights

LVSC is proud to announce that the 2026 Martha Davis Award for Outstanding Service was presented to Peter Russell, LVSC Tutor and Board Treasurer. 

I'm a little shocked and humbled by receiving this award! There are so many great tutors and supporters of LVSC. -Pete Russell

The award is given in memory of Martha Davis, LVSC’s board president who passed away unexpectedly in 2018. For 16 years, Martha dedicated herself to LVSC: she was a tutor, conversation group leader, event committee member, board member, and 10-year board president. Each year The Martha Davis Award for Outstanding Service is given to an individual who embodies Martha’s spirit of volunteerism and dedication to LVSC’s mission and all aspects of our organization. 

Pete became a tutor in 2021 and quickly made a positive impression. He has offered to tutor (multiple!) small groups. He has helped these students (more than 10!) gain confidence and reach impressive goals. He is always looking to acquire new tutoring skills and recently offered to work with a group of beginners while engaging a former student as a teaching assistant - a great example of the full-circle impact of his work.

Pete at an LVSC potluck with two of his students.

In 2023, Pete joined the Board and, with his accounting expertise, immediately stepped in to support the co-treasurers. During that time, he helped manage the complex government grant reporting process and now, as the sole Board Treasurer, continues to strengthen and enhance our already strong monthly reporting. Most recently, he has taken the initiative to document processes and procedures to support future Board leaders. His curiosity, dedication, and willingness to help make him an invaluable member of the LVSC community.

Pete at Golf Fore Literacy.Like the namesake of this award, Pete never misses an event or meeting. Pete shows up not just with his time, but with his generosity, his enthusiasm, and always with family and friends in tow. He’s an incredible ambassador for LVSC, spreading the word about the mission, connecting LVSC with new volunteers, and even building bridges through his work with the Helping Hands Food Pantry and his church.

Pete with family and friends at LVSC's Brunch & Baskets event.In presenting the Martha Davis Award, executive director Aimee Lam said,

Pete’s kind demeanor is engaging, his dedication is inspiring, and his willingness to lend a helping hand is greatly appreciated. We can always count on Pete, a quality that Martha Davis exemplified and valued.  Congratulations, Pete, and thank you for your many contributions. I’m so lucky to work with you!