Tri-County S.P.E.A.K.S. names Russell executive director

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Alex Russell has been named executive director of Tri-County S.P.E.A.K.S., a nonprofit organization focused on preventing sexual violence and providing support services to survivors of sexual assault, the organization said in a news release.

The organization has been in existence in the region for 45 years and was previously known as People Against Rape. The organization recently went through a rebranding with the help of TRIO, a Mount Pleasant marketing agency.

“Previously, many community members were under the impression that we only assist victims of sexual assault, but our work goes far beyond that,” Russell said in a statement. “We believe in the power of educating through our services and outreach programs, knowing that as we increase awareness on the subject, we can help decrease the number of sexual assaults and bring healing to those who are impacted by sexual violence.”

Russell recently served in health promotion and violence prevention programs at the College of Charleston. She also has experience in direct service settings and leadership roles within health programs, Tri-County S.P.E.A.K.S. said.

“It certainly is an exciting time for our organization as we start the new year with a new name, a new look and a new director,” board Chairwoman Tenelle O. Jones said in a statement. “We believe our new name will further emphasize the variety of services and advocacy that we offer, not only for victims and survivors of sexual assault, but also promote the fundamental component of education surrounding sexual violence in Charleston, Berkeley and Dorchester counties.”