Fielding Dillard. Russell Sr, 1971
| Fielding Dillard Russell, Sr. (1907-1993) |
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The Russell Union's Namesake Fielding Dillard Russell, Sr. - teacher, scholar, coach, and gentle philosopher- so embodied the history and character of Georgia Southern during his 43 year tenure, that it was said of him, "Not to know this man is not to know the college. His service began in 1932 as Dean of Men and Assistant Professor of English. A Chaucerian Scholar, he rose to the rank of Full Professor, Head of the Department of English, and Chairperson of the Division of Languages. His contributions to the intellectual life of the campus were matched by his spirit of sport, and he coached boxing and tennis in the 1930's and 1940's. Throughout the era that students numbered in the hundreds, Professor Russell made it a point to learn every name. When Georgia Southern attained University statues in December 1990, he was chosen to deliver the remarks that closed the institution's final moments as a college and opened its new era as a University. Upon his retirement in 1975, Professor Russell was paid this tribute by his friend United States Senator Sam Ervin of North Carolina, "An inspiring teacher, an untiring tennis player, a fascinating story teller, and enthusiastic boxing coach, a charitable lover of people, a delightful humorist, and a profound humanist.... who has become a legend in his own time at Georgia Southern College. |
Contacting Student Activities
Phone: (912) 478 - 7270
Fax: (912) 478 - 7359
Contacting Russell Union
Phone: (912) 478 - 0399
Fax: (912) 478 - 0419
