Anthony “Tony” Russo, Director of Accounting of Long Island Board of REALTORS® (LIBOR), has been named an honoree of the 2021 Business and Finance Awards by Long Island Business News (LIBN).

The Business and Finance Award program recognizes financial professionals whose exemplary performance as stewards of Long Island’s corporations, government, and nonprofit organizations have made significant impacts in the region.

In his role as Director of Accounting, Russo is responsible for supervising the accounting for LIBOR, a leading regional REALTOR® trade association that serves 29,000 real estate professionals throughout Queens, Nassau and Suffolk Counties.

Russo’s 33 years of experience within the association’s accounting department has given him a wealth of in-depth knowledge in all financial matters. Recently, he was part of the accounting team that was instrumental in the consolidation of two for-profit MLS subsidiaries, which created a greater service for members and consumers. 

In addition to managing the accounting for the association, Russo is also President and CEO of Metro REALTORS® Federal Credit Union (MRFCU), formerly known as Long Island REALTORS® Federal Credit Union. MRFCU, an 18.5-million-dollar financial institution with over 2,200 members, is available to LIBOR employees, and REALTORS® and their families in New York State. 

Russo oversees daily operations of MRFCU to ensure services and procedures are effective and efficient.  In this role, he orchestrated the approval by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) to expand geographic membership from LIBOR members to all REALTORS® and their families in New York State. With this approval came a rebrand of the credit union to appeal to the larger geographic clientele.

Russo spearheaded the expansion of the MRFCU with the intent to provide valuable financial services to the community of REALTORS® across New York State, helping those who may not have regular income, acquire home, car and personal loans.

Personally, Russo is a continued supporter of LIBOR’s community initiatives. For over a decade he has passionately rolled up his sleeves to volunteer building homes with Habitat for Humanity and wheelchair ramps for the disabled with Rebuilding Together Long Island.

“Long Island Board of REALTORS® congratulates Tony Russo on his recognition as an outstanding financial steward of Long Island’s nonprofit organizations,” said Tessa Hultz, LIBOR CEO. “Tony is a natural mentor and advocate for staff and members alike. His selfless service and positive approach in leadership have maximized the potential of his team and our association. We are proud to celebrate the acknowledgment of his exceptional leadership and achievements.”