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The Las Cruces International Film Festival will honor Mesilla mayor and co-owner of Salud! Restaurant Russell Hernandez with its esteemed “Hometown Hero” award April 11 at the film festival awards ceremony at Rio Grande Theatre.
The Las Cruces International Film Festival Hometown Hero award recognizes someone with ties to the area that has given back to the community. The award distinguishes an individual who has made significant contributions to the community both within Southern New Mexico and beyond.
Past recipients of the award include Las Cruces mayor Eric Enriquez, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, Russell Allen, Belia Alvarez & Curtis Rosemond, Irene Oliver Lewis, Greg Smith, the honorable Xochitl Torres Small, Marcie Dickerson and Wanda Bowman.
“Mayor Russell Hernandez’s commitment and love of southern New Mexico is apparent in everything he does,” said Las Cruces International Film Festival founder and executive director Ross Marks. “He leads with compassion and kindness. He is just getting started. We expect even more great things from him. He is a true leader and a visionary.”
Hernandez is a proud fourth-generation resident of southern New Mexico, deeply rooted in its rich history and vibrant community. As a CEO and co-business owner, he understands the unique challenges and opportunities that local enterprises face and is committed to fostering a thriving economic environment.
With a passion for preserving Mesilla’s heritage while embracing growth and innovation, Mayor Hernandez works tirelessly to ensure that his community remains a welcoming and prosperous place for all.
Russell enjoys outdoor recreation and actively participates in community events. He values spending time with his children and significant others, recognizing them as the upcoming generation and future of southern New Mexico.
His involvement in nonprofit work reflects his dedication to supporting both the community and local businesses, making him a trusted and respected leader.
