AT&T today announced that industry veteran Sylvia Russellis retiring as President, AT&T Georgia.  In her more than twenty years with AT&T, Ms. Russell has been supporting the company's efforts to provide the latest technology to keep customers connected, while serving the various communities in Georgia.  As the primary external representative for AT&T inGeorgia, she also has been responsible for successful implementation of the company's public policy agenda in the state.

"As a business leader, Sylvia has been an important ally in seeking ways to attract jobs and investment to Georgia.  She also has a deep commitment to education and competitiveness. We appreciate her service on the Board of the Technical College System, her support of our REACH scholarship program and related issues like workforce readiness and dropout prevention in the state," said Georgia Governor Nathan Deal.  "She will be missed, and we wish her well in her new endeavors."

A tireless community leader, Sylvia and AT&T Georgia have worked to build communities and touch lives throughout the state by providing volunteer and philanthropic support, particularly in the area of education.  She has been honored by a variety of organizations and has served in a range of leadership roles in the community. Sylvia is currently a member of the Board of Directors of the Technical College System of  Georgia, the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce, the Georgia Corporation for Economic Development, the Commerce Club and the Woodruff Arts Center.

Prior to the merger of AT&T and BellSouth, Sylvia served as Vice President, AT&T External Affairs, Southeast, responsible for all legal matters and public policy within the region.  An attorney, she also has served as senior attorney for AT&T's Government Markets Business Unit and general attorney, supporting AT&T's entry into the local telecommunications market.  In 2000, she was named Vice President of Law and Government Affairs for the Southern Region.

Sylvia is married to Herman J. Russell and resides in Atlanta.  At this time, no replacement has been named.