Lydia graduated from Northwestern College, St. Paul in May 2011, with a Bachelor of Science degree in studio art and a minor in Biblical studies. Post graduation, she has been hard at work striving to not only use her art degree but also avoid the "starving artist" stereotype that often accompanies it. Lydia specializes in drawing and painting portraits, and when she is not busy doodling and updating her art blog, she also enjoys reading classic literature, meeting new people, drinking copious amounts of good coffee, and playing with her puppy.

Lydia is a St. Paul native, but excited to see what God has in store for her here in Minneapolis. In the future Miss Russell hopes to pursue her masters in art and teaching, but for now she could not be more thankful to be a part of the wonderful staff and ministry of First Free Church!

Lydia joined the First Free Church Staff in September 2011.