A Legacy of Leadership: Mike Russo Concludes Board Service as Brian Burkett Joins Leadership Anne Arundel Board of Directors
Leadership is about more than serving in a role. It’s about investing in people, strengthening organizations, and creating opportunities for others to lead. At McKenna Russo Law, we are proud to celebrate both a remarkable legacy of service and an exciting new chapter with Leadership Anne Arundel.
After six years of dedicated service on the Leadership Anne Arundel Board of Directors, partner Mike Russo has concluded his board tenure, leaving an impact on one of Anne Arundel County’s premier leadership organizations.
“People often ask how to make a difference in their community, and my answer is always the same: half of life is just showing up,” said Mike Russo, founding partner & CFO, McKenna Russo Law. “Leadership Anne Arundel has always been a place where showing up mattered—whether that meant serving on the Board, supporting classmates, or helping tackle challenges facing our community. There were certainly times when it would have been easier to stay focused on work or personal commitments, but civic engagement is an investment that pays dividends far beyond ourselves. The relationships I’ve built, the leaders I’ve learned from, and the opportunity to give back have made every meeting, every conversation, and every hour worthwhile. My hope is that others will choose to show up too, because our communities become stronger when people with various viewpoints and skillsets decide to be part of the solution. I am very happy that my partner Brian Burkett will take up where I leave off on the Board. I know they are in good hands.“
Throughout two consecutive three-year terms, Mike showed up and brought strategic insight with a legal perspective, to developing community leaders. As Chair of the Governance Committee, he helped strengthen the organization’s foundation. He also served countless hours as Co-Chair of Flagship Law & Public Safety Day, helping shape one of Leadership Anne Arundel’s signature educational experiences for each incoming class.
“I am proud to congratulate our fellow partner, Mike Russo, on the successful conclusion of service to Leadership Anne Arundel,” said Maria Worthington McKenna, Managing Partner of McKenna Russo Law. “Mike’s willingness to dedicate his time, energy, and leadership to strengthening our community reflects the values we strive to uphold every day. We thank Mike for his meaningful contributions and lasting impact.”
While Mike’s board service may be ending, his involvement with Leadership Anne Arundel certainly is not. As one chapter closes, another begins. We are equally excited to share that McKenna Russo Law partner Brian Burkett has been elected to the Leadership Anne Arundel Board of Directors. Brian’s appointment represents more than the addition of a new board member—it is a meaningful passing of the torch. Building on the strong foundation established by leaders like Mike, Brian looks forward to contributing his own perspective and service to the organization.
The firm’s commitment to Leadership Anne Arundel extends even further. This year, partner Kelly A. Burgy proudly graduated from Leadership Anne Arundel’s Flagship Class, further reflecting McKenna Russo Law’s belief that investing in leadership and civic engagement strengthens both our profession and our community.
Thank you, Mike, for your exceptional leadership and years of service. Congratulations to Brian on his election to the Board of Directors, and to Kelly on completing the Flagship Program. We look forward to seeing the continued impact each of them will make through Leadership Anne Arundel and throughout Anne Arundel County.