Meet Our Team

Learn More About Our Owners

Co-owners Ken Russell and Collin Ballard, have over 47 years of experience in the jewelry industry. Both Ken and Collin commit themselves to stay up to date on current industry trends, by attending at least two jewelry trade shows annually.

In addition, Ken and Collin annually attend the five-day American Gemological Society Conclave where they receive continuing education along with networking opportunities to exchange ideas with other jewelry professionals.

Ken and Collin are both enrolled in the American Gemological Society’s Gemologist Program. In 1998, Ken graduated from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) with a focus on appraisals. Collin holds a GIA diamond certificate.

Outside of the store, Ken spends time with his family and at his cottage, and Collin enjoys cooking, hunting, traveling, entertaining, and spending time with his family.

Learn More About Our Goldsmith

David Kamp is our Master Goldsmith and has 54 years of experience. He attended Gem City College of Illinois and did an apprenticeship for 4 years there.

He has worked for Russel & Ballard for 6 years. In his spare time, he loves spending time with his family.

Customer Support Staff

Russell & Ballard Jewelers has an outstanding support staff here to answer any of your jewelry questions or to help you pick out a gift for that special someone. Upon hiring, Russell & Ballard thoroughly train and educate their staff.

Ken personally trains his team on diamonds. Each staff member reads through Diamond and Gemological Institute of America manuals and is then quizzed on their understanding of the material.

Debbie Mcleod-Ward is our jewelry manager. She has over 25 years of experience. She has worked for us for 6 years. She is friendly and knowledgeable in all aspects of jewelry. She is always available to our customers. In her spare time, she loves being outside and spending her weekends at her cabin. She loves being with family most of all.