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About Viviana

Why I am Running for County Legislator

"I am running for County Legislator because I bring over two decades of grassroots advocacy, government experience, and a track record of delivering results for diverse communities. For 12 years, I proudly served on the North Hempstead Town Board, representing a district made up of Democrats, Republicans, and independents — and I’ve built a reputation for working collaboratively with everyone to get things done. From leading $80 million in downtown revitalization projects to overseeing the creation of the $26 million “Yes We Can” Community Center, my focus has always been on smart development, quality of life, and real solutions.


It is especially important that a Democrat wins this seat to prevent a Republican supermajority and protect balanced representation here in Nassau County. I’ll be representing a dynamic and critical area that includes the Nassau Coliseum HUB, Hofstra University, Nassau Community College, Planned Parenthood and some of the largest shopping and economic centers in the county. It’s a district at the center of growth, with complex issues involving land use, development, PILOT agreements, women's rights to choose and transportation — all areas where I have direct, hands-on experience.


As Democrats, it is time for us to REBUILD, RECONNECT, and REFOCUS. I offer the experience, understanding, and knowledge to cultivate relationships and build community trust so we can move our priorities forward. I’ve led successful campaigns, worked inside and outside of government, and know how to be part of a coordinated team effort — because progress doesn’t happen in isolation.


I’m running to bring seasoned, effective leadership to District 2, to help our party regain traction, and to rebuild our majority at the county level - and your vote will protect our voice." 

Viviana's Background

Viviana is a small business owner, realtor and longtime government professional. From 2010 to 2021, she served as Councilwoman for District 1 in the Town of North Hempstead, championing community revitalization, affordable housing, and environmental justice. Her efforts led to major projects such as the “Yes We Can” Community Center and affordable housing in Westbury, as well as downtown revitilization and parks improvements in Carle Place and New Cassel. After leaving office Viviana was a part of the Performance Management Team for Suffolk County as an Executive Analyst working on Continuous Improvement and Innovation for county departments and overseeing operations for the Suffolk 311 Call Center.  


A proud daughter of a Teamsters porter who began serving in 1965, Viviana comes from a family that proudly celebrates 60 years of union membership. Guided by her strong Christian faith, she is deeply committed to public service and advocating for working families and economic development. She lives in New Cassel/Westbury with her husband Gary. They have three children—Gary Jr., Imani, and Malachi—and two grandchildren.

Viviana's Community Involvement

  • NAACP Member
  • Westbury High School Industry Advisory Committee
  • SUNY Old Westbury University Foundation Trustee
  • Deaconess at First Baptist Cathedral of Westbury
  • Executive Committee Member and Chaplain for Brown Legacy and Development Foundation LLC
  • In 2015, along with community leaders, started 1st Haitian Flag Day in New Cassel 
  • Founding Member of Unity Circle Mother’s Center of New Cassel, Samaritan Women of God Liturgical Outreach Dance Ministry, McCoy Center Family & Youth Services
  • Former Treasurer and Audit Chair, Committee for Business Tourism and Development Corporation
  • Former Member, North Hempstead Project Independence Advisory Committee
  • Former Co-Chair, Local Government 2020 Census Committee

Connect With Viviana

Copyright © 2025 Viviana Russell for Nassau County Legislator  - All Rights Reserved.

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