2025 Murray Hendel Award to Russell Budd

The Collier Citizens Council presents The Murray Hendel Civic Achievement Award Honoring 2025 Recipient Russell Budd

The Collier Citizens Council is pleased to announce that Russell Budd is the recipient of this year’s Murray Hendel Civic Achievement Award, given annually for extraordinary contributions to the
community.

It’s fitting that Mr. Budd, a builder, is being honored for his long-time efforts to build a stronger community through exceptional business leadership and civic engagement. As the founder of PBS Contractors, he has contributed directly to the growth of Greater Naples and, in the process, enriched the lives of thousands.

Budd is a University of Florida graduate, with a degree in building construction. Committed to community service, he has chaired numerous local boards and has been recognized for his fund-raising and philanthropy.

Budd’s signature event is Russell’s Barbeque, a biannual cookout that raises money for needy children.

Russell Budd Bio:

Russell Budd is a lifelong advocate for building stronger communities through exceptional business leadership and meaningful civic engagement. A Naples High School graduate and longtime Southwest Florida resident, Russell earned his Bachelor’s degree in Building Construction from the University of Florida in 1981. He returned to Naples shortly after and became a State Certified General Contractor, founding PBS Contractors in 1986.

Guided by a philosophy rooted in integrity, craftsmanship, and purpose, Russell led PBS Contractors to become Southwest Florida’s Concierge Builder®, renowned for luxury homes, commercial projects, and a commitment to enriching lives through every project.

Beyond the job site, Russell dedicated decades to strengthening the Naples community through service, philanthropy, and leadership. He serves on several boards, and his impact through PBS Contractors spans numerous nonprofit organizations across the region. He also chairs community events like the Farm City BBQ and founded Russell’s Barbecue, a biannual fundraiser supporting local nonprofits.

Now serving in a mentorship and advisory role within the company, Russell continues to inspire the next generation of leaders while championing initiatives that strengthen the fabric of Southwest Florida.

Community Leadership and Recognition

• B.S. in Building Construction, University of Florida (1981)
• State Certified General Contractor 1982
• Founder & President, PBS Contractors – Naples, FL since 1986
• Leadership Collier Class of 1994
• Leadership Florida Class 24
• Florida Certified Master Builder
• Nearly 40 years as Southwest Florida’s Concierge Builder®
• Committed to community service and philanthropy including Russell’s Barbecue and local engagement

 

Leadership Roles:

• Past Chairman – Greater Naples Chamber of Commerce
• Past Chairman – Leadership Collier Foundation
• Past President – Collier Building Industry Association
• Past Chairman – Golden Gate Fire Control and Rescue District
• Past Chairman – Collier County Planning Commission
• Past Chairman – David Lawrence Centers for Behavioral Health
• Immediate Past President and current Board member – Collier 100 Club
• Board of Directors (current) – Avow Hospice
• Board of Directors (current) – Moorings Park
• Board of Directors & Event Chair of Farm City BBQ of Collier County (current)

 

Recognitions:

• 2023, 2024 & 2025 Naples 100– Collier County’s Most Influential Business Leaders
• Builder of the Year (2010 & 2018) – AIA FL Southwest
• Business Ethics Award – Uncommon Friends Foundation (2018)
• Employer of the Year – Collier Child Care Resources (2018)
• Gentlemen of Distinction – Champions for Learning (2014)
• Leadership Collier Distinctive Alumni Award (2010)