Russell Alumni
President: Mary Robinson
Vice-President: Harriet Jones
Secretary: Anna Chaffin
Treasurer: Liz Cremeans
Documents:
** Russell High Alumni are also utilizing the following third party website. **
The Russell High School Alumni Association was chartered at a formation meeting on January 21, 1998. the first phases of the organization were drafted by a small band of Russell supporters that included Col. John Burgess, Pam Potter, Liz Cremeans, Bryan Ashley, and Mary Robinson. The purpose of the organization is to provide an opportunity for graduates and other loyal supporters of Russell High School to identify with its proud, rich tradition and further that spirit through participation in alumni-centered activities and continue to support the school through contributions. The first officers were: President – Mary Haines Robinson (Class of 1967), President Elect – Phyllis Phelps McCoy (1952), Secretary – Esther “Sissy” Meadows Shaffer (1963), Treasure – James “Buck” Elkins (1952), and Associate Representative Pam Potter.
Membership in the Alumni Association is available in three categories: Alumni (graduates only), Associate (non-graduates who are or have been a part of the school community), or Corporate (business or organizations that desire to contribute through the business name). The annual membership fee is $10 or a lifetime membership may be obtained with a onetime $50 fee. The lifetime membership is also available with six consecutive annual $10 memberships. By joining the association, members can become part of the regular meetings and activities and receive the quarterly newsletter. All funds generated by the association are used to support the alumni activities and programs at Russell High School.
The major event for each year centers around the Homecoming activities. The Alumni Association takes great pride each year in selecting worthy alumni and contributors to be inducted into the school’s Hall of Fame. The recognition for this honor takes place at a ceremony during the Homecoming football game, which is only a part of the alumni presence during Homecoming. Alumni are featured in the pre-game activities with the singing of “My Old Kentucky Home,” the National Anthem, and the Alma Mater. The announcer and band director are alumni, as well as the sideline chain gang.
Another activity that the organization takes great pride in is the selection of the Outstanding Senior Male and Female from each year’s graduating class. The selection is made by the Russell High School faculty after a careful selection process and honors those who have contributed to the school and maintained high standards, displayed leadership and embodied the spirit of the traditions that the alumni hold in high regard. This award is the only recognition award presented at the graduation ceremony and is the highest honor that a senior receives. A scholarship and lifetime membership in the Alumni Association accompany this award, and the names of the recipients are listed on a plaque in the school’s lobby.