Edwin Russell ‘50 and Gloria Russell ‘49, recently marked an incredible milestone: their 75th wedding anniversary. Their love story, intertwined with their time at the University of Vermont, is a testament to resilience, dedication, and a shared commitment to family and community. Their journey, marked by moments of joy, hardship, and deep faith, offers a glimpse into history, values, and the enduring power of education.
Early Beginnings: From Vermont to UVM
Edwin and Gloria’s roots were firmly planted in rural New England. Gloria, born in Laconia, New Hampshire, grew up in St. Johnsbury, Vermont, and graduated from St. Johnsbury Academy.
Edwin, meanwhile, grew up in Bristol, Vermont, after his family faced significant challenges, including the tragic loss of his father when Edwin was just 13.
Despite financial hardships, both found their way to UVM.
Gloria began her college education elsewhere, but she quickly realized it wasn’t challenging enough. "I told my parents it didn’t feel like college,” she said. “So, I transferred to UVM, and that was real college." She studied hard while living and working at Allen House during her sophomore and junior years.
Edwin’s journey to UVM was less direct. After graduating from Bristol High School on D-Day in 1944—a day of global significance—he enrolled at UVM. Edwin juggled his studies with working for the President of Burlington Savings and Loan as a freshman and in the Waterman cafeteria during the first quarter of his second year to make ends meet.
But soon after he turned 18 years old, he paused his studies to enlist in the U.S. Army, serving in the Pacific theater under General MacArthur. When he returned to UVM, he carried not only his books but also the weight of his wartime experiences.
A Blind Date That Changed Everything
In January 1948, fate—and a persistent friend—brought Edwin and Gloria together.
Gloria’s roommate, along with Edwin’s friend, orchestrated a blind date between the two for a college hayride hosted by the Congregational Church in Burlington.
Edwin initially declined, insisting he needed to focus on his studies. But after some convincing, he relented, unknowingly stepping into a moment that would define his life.
“When I saw Gloria, I thought, ‘This might just be worth it,’” Edwin recalled with a twinkle in his eye. The hayride was the start of something magical. Gloria laughed as she recounted the moment: “Neither of us thought a hayride would lead to 75 years together, but here we are.”
Their courtship unfolded on the UVM campus, marked by dances, strolls down Main Street, and long conversations about their shared dreams. Their connection deepened with each passing day, and by the time Edwin graduated, they were ready to start their lives together.
Life at UVM: Studies, Dances, and Building Memories
In the late 1940s, UVM was a smaller campus, recovering from the impact of World War II. The university offered an intimate setting where relationships blossomed, and professors often knew their students by name.
Gloria, who studied education, played violin in the university orchestra, which she recalls as one of her favorite experiences. "It was a good-sized orchestra," she said proudly, "and I even played first violin."
Edwin pursued agricultural education, taking classes with renowned professors like Lyman Rowell, whose lectures in zoology were unforgettable. “He could write on the chalkboard with two or three different colors of chalk at the same time,” Edwin marveled.
The couple also found joy in the simpler pleasures of campus life—attending dances and visiting the college dairy bar. Gloria fondly recalled teaching a Sunday school class at a local church that included her professor’s child, a unique blending of her roles as a student and mentor.
A Shared Commitment to Education
After graduating, Edwin and Gloria married and launched their careers in education—a shared passion that would define much of their lives.
Edwin began teaching agriculture in Granville, New York, while Gloria took on a multifaceted role teaching both English and music. "My first teaching job was a small high school in Vermont," Gloria said. "I had to teach music for 12 grades and English for seven through 12. It was a lot, but I loved it."
The couple’s dedication to education extended to their own family. They decided early on that Gloria would stay home with their children until they reached school age. Their seven children benefited from this nurturing environment, and together, the Russell family has completed an astounding 40 years of college education.
“Our kids have done well,” Gloria said with pride. “And we wouldn’t have it any other way.”
Resilience Through Challenges
Life wasn’t always easy for Edwin and Gloria.
Balancing careers, family, and finances required sacrifices. At one point, they carried three mortgages while supporting multiple children in college. “There were times when it felt like an uphill climb,” Edwin admitted. “But we believed in education and hard work, and it paid off.”
The couple also faced personal loss. Gloria’s father passed away at 53 after working tirelessly to support their family, and her mother died at 49 from tuberculosis. These early hardships instilled in her a profound sense of resilience and purpose.
Community and Service: A Life Well-Lived
Edwin and Gloria’s impact extended far beyond their careers. After retiring, they became active volunteers in their community. From helping to establish the Wilder Homestead Museum to running a soup kitchen at their local church, the Russells dedicated themselves to serving others.
For four years, Edwin served as treasurer and chair of building and grounds for the Wilder Homestead Museum in Malone, New York, while Gloria acted as secretary. “We believed in preserving history and giving back,” Edwin said.
Gloria also spearheaded efforts to organize weekly meals at their church, ensuring that no one in their community went hungry. “It was important to us to help others,” Gloria reflected. “That’s what makes a life meaningful.”
Advice for Future Generations
As they celebrate their 75th anniversary, Edwin and Gloria offer advice for today’s UVM students.
Edwin, ever the teacher, emphasized the importance of decisions. “Every choice you make has consequences,” he said. “Think carefully about your goals and stay committed.”
Gloria’s advice is equally heartfelt. “Life isn’t always easy,” she said, “but if you have faith, love, and resilience, you can overcome anything.”
Looking Back, Moving Forward
Edwin and Gloria’s 75 years together have been a remarkable journey. Their story—a blend of love, perseverance, and shared purpose—serves as an inspiration to the UVM community.
Their lives remind us that even amidst challenges, faith and determination can lead to a life filled with meaning and joy.
Read More
You can keep reading more stories about our wonderful UVM alumni:
A Lifetime of Love and Loyalty: Edwin and Gloria Russell Celebrate 75 Years Together
Kevin Morgenstein Fuerst and Rowan Elleman
Jan 10, 2025