Rockwall County Official Graduates from Statewide Leadership Program

ROCKWALL COUNTY, TX (May 7, 2026) — Rockwall County Justice of the Peace Judge Mark Russo is among 21 county officials who have completed Leadership 254, a 14-month leadership development program offered by the Texas Association of Counties (TAC).

Participants were selected through a competitive application process and represent a diverse cross-section of Texas counties — rural, suburban and urban — as well as the full range of county offices. TAC provided scholarships to cover the program’s tuition.

The program includes four in-depth training modules over 14 months, totaling 79 hours of classroom instruction and hands-on learning.

“Leadership 254 has strengthened my ability to lead, enhance communication habits with citizens and serve Rockwall County more effectively,” Russo said.

Leadership 254 is designed to address the unique challenges facing county officials. The curriculum combines leadership assessments, practical application and peer collaboration. Key topics include self-awareness, communication, ethical decision-making and effective leadership strategies.

For more information, visit www.county.org/leadership254.

Press release and photo submitted by Jim Barto, Rockwall County Public Information Officer.

  feature, Judge Mark Russo, leadership 254, Rockwall County, Rockwall County Justice of the Peace, Texas Association of Counties