by Bevin Hicks
“My name is Russell Woodard, but most people know me as Rusty.”
That simple, unassuming introduction perfectly captures the essence of the 2025 Robert E. Russ Award recipient. Presented by the Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, the Robert E. Russ Award stands as one of the highest honors bestowed upon an individual in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the Ruston-Lincoln business community.
Named in honor of Robert E. Russ, Ruston’s founder, this prestigious accolade is awarded sparingly to individuals whose lifetime achievements truly embody the founding ideals of our great town. While Russell Woodard’s list of accomplishments is significant and impressive, he carries with him warmth and humility that makes everyone he meets feel valued.
I was one of the many “Ruston kids” who grew up with cherished memories of running up and down the staircases of the Woodard home, enjoying more than my fair share of Mrs. Cindy’s crock pot rice and gravy. Though life led us in different directions, I found my way back to Ruston in 2018. Not long after my return, while walking through downtown, I encountered Mr. Rusty stepping out of his law office.
“How are you, girl?” a familiar face pulled me in for a hug and his signature smile, the kind of smile that instantly reassured me, I was home.
There’s something incredibly special about the way this community brings life full circle, making the celebration of someone like Russell Woodard, who has played a role in shaping so many of us, truly priceless.
Rusty’s roots in Ruston are as deep as his professional accomplishments.
A proud graduate of Ruston High School (class of 1972), he went on to earn his undergraduate degree from Louisiana State University in 1976 before obtaining his Juris Doctor from LSU Law School in 1979. Furthering his commitment to legal excellence, he attended George Washington University in 1980, laying the foundation for a career that would span decades.
From 1980 to 1990, he practiced law with McKeithen, Wear, Ryland, and Woodard, during which time he also served as an Assistant District Attorney. In 1990, Rusty returned to his hometown and founded Woodard Law Offices, a practice that not only became a pillar of legal service in Ruston but also reflected his steadfast dedication to the community until his retirement in 2022.
Yet, it is not solely Rusty’s legal career that defines him.
Beyond the courtroom, he has been a tireless advocate for economic, educational, and social progress. Since 1992, his service as a board member for Louisiana National Bank has been marked by a commitment to honor his family legacy, a resolve galvanized when he stepped up following the tragic loss of his father in a plane crash. His contributions to the Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of Commerce span decades, and his leadership within Temple Baptist Church, as well as his advocacy with the Domestic Abuse Resistance Team (DART), highlight a life lived in service to others.
Rusty’s involvement in mentoring youth further exemplifies his dedication. He spent the 1990s coaching Little League Baseball and later led the Ruston High School Mock Trial and Debate Team from 1996 to 2000. His commitment extended into the legal arena as he dedicated years to grading the Louisiana Bar Exam and offering free legal advocacy to those in need. Through every facet of his professional and personal life, Rusty has championed the values of integrity, community, and service.
At the heart of his journey lies a simple yet profound piece of advice he once received from former Governor John McKeithen: “Return your phone calls.”
Far from being a grand or sophisticated dictum, it encapsulated a principle that has steered him through life both professionally and personally. Reflecting on this counsel, Rusty’s modesty shines through when he remarks, “Everyone knows I’m not erudite or sophisticated, but I’ve always tried to tend to my business.” His approach is clear, sincere, and personal, qualities that resonate with all who have the privilege of knowing him.
When asked what this award means to him, Rusty recalled a formative moment from his youth. At an award ceremony honoring a friend’s father, a relative advised the recipient, “Treat all these things they are saying like perfume. Smell it and enjoy it, but don’t swallow it.”
Embracing that wisdom, Rusty accepted this honor with gentle humor and unassuming grace. His heartfelt appreciation is both palpable and balanced, reflecting his commitment to the values that have guided him throughout his life.
Together with his wife, Judge Cynthia Woodard, whose partnership has spanned over 47 years, Rusty has cultivated a legacy that transcends professional achievement. Together, they are proud parents of Bethany, Lexie, and Russell Jr., and doting grandparents to four grandchildren. Their journey, marked by both challenges and triumphs, has left an enduring positive impact on Ruston and its citizens.
Woodard’s selection as the 2025 Robert E. Russ Award recipient is not merely an acknowledgment of his past accomplishments; it is a celebration of a lifetime devoted to the enrichment of Ruston. His tireless contributions to law, business, and education have helped shape a community that thrives on compassion, integrity, and unity.
In celebrating Woodard, we celebrate the very spirit of Ruston, a community where calls are returned, handshakes are genuine, and every act of service builds a foundation for generations to come. As we look forward to the 105th Chamber Awards banquet, where he will receive this honor, we are reminded that Ruston is defined by its extraordinary people—and one thing is certain: Ruston is better because of Russell “Rusty” Woodard.
