IWIL Monthly Luncheon
Speaker: Detective Tamara “Tami” Russell
Thursday, October 16, 2025
11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Please Note Lunch Meeting Location Change!
Mariah's Steakhouse & Pasta, 3317 Robbins Road in Springfield

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Strength in Every Hat: A Journey of Grit, Grace, and Growth

* Breaking Barriers in Law Enforcement

* Being the first is an honor, but it’s also a responsibility — because the goal is to make sure I’m not the last.

* The Power of Resilience: Breast Cancer Survivor Story

*The Balancing Act- “You can be strong and soft, disciplined and creative, broken and still powerful.” 

About our speaker

Detective Tamara “Tami” Russell, a 19½-year veteran of the Springfield Police Department and a pioneering leader in law enforcement. Born and raised in Springfield, Illinois, Tamara has dedicated her life to serving the very community that shaped her. As the first female president of the Police Benevolent and Protective Association Unit #5, which represents Springfield Police Officers and Sergeants, she has been a steadfast advocate for justice, progress, and representation in a field where women remain underrepresented.

Tamara is also a proud 7-year breast cancer survivor — a journey that transformed her outlook and led her to walk the runway at Fashion Week, representing strength, survivorship, and self-love.

Her exceptional service and leadership have been recognized with the Abraham Lincoln Award and the Silver Schwarz Award.

Beyond the badge and spotlight, Tamara finds her greatest joy at home. She is the devoted wife of Chief Christopher Russell, Chief of Police at Lincoln Land Community College, and the proud mother of a blended family that includes two biological children and three stepchildren — along with being a dedicated dog mom.

Detective Tamara Russell is living proof that you can wear many hats — detective, leader, survivor, model, wife, and mom — and wear them all with strength, grace, and authenticity.

Please Note Lunch Meeting Location Change!
Mariah's Steakhouse & Pasta, 3317 Robbins Road in Springfield

REGISTER NOW

Our luncheons are open to all IWIL members and their guests. Registration is $25 for members and guests through October 10; $30 on or after October 11. Registration will close on October 13.

*IWIL is unable to provide refunds.  If you cannot attend an event for which you have registered, we encourage you to send someone in your place. Simply have your guest indicate at the check-in table that she is your substitute.  We appreciate your understanding.