Marking a major milestone in campus history, the Russell House University Union will celebrate its 70th anniversary on Oct. 16.

Known as USC’s “Grand Central Station,” the Russell House is a hub for student life and a cornerstone of community, connection and culture. 

Sean Hassett, a senior sport and entertainment management major and  Gamecock Entertainment intern, says there is no shortage of exciting plans to celebrate the student union’s 70th.

“There will be activities and events running from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on the day of,” Hassett says.

From 10 a.m. until 3 p.m., students can visit Russell House for activities, giveaways and more. Plus at 11:45 a.m., the action ventures out onto Greene Street for a "Here's a Health, Russell House" toast.

But the real excitement begins after sunset. For one night only, students can once again experience Bustle at the Russell, which he calls "one of the students’ favorite events of the year." The official event will start at 7 p.m. and is free to USC students with a valid Carolina Card. At 7:30 p.m.,  President Amiridis and members of the Russell family will cut a birthday cake celebrating the building's many years of service.

Hassett says the special event will be a great opportunity for students to have fun and celebrate the school.

“At the event, there will be stations with different activities, grab-and-go goodies, a roller-skating rink in the ballroom, a video game truck on Greene Street and even a ‘50s-themed dinner in Garnet Station,” he adds.

A storied history

Construction of the first phase of USC’s student union, originally called the Carolina Student House, was completed in 1954 during President Donald S. Russell’s tenure. Russell and his wife, Virginia, were adored for their commitment to improving the university and their genuine interest in students’ wellbeing. With student support, the building was officially renamed on Oct. 16, 1955, to honor the Russell family. Seventy years later, their influence still lives at the heart of campus.

Since its initial construction, the Russell House has undergone three major additions. In 1958, a second-floor food court was built. In 1967, the West Wing, which houses various Department of Student Life offices, was added. And in 1976, the ballrooms, meeting rooms and lounges were built.

In more recent years, many interior renovations have taken place to continue meeting the evolving needs of the growing student population. For the fall 2025 semester, renovations to the Russell House added the Garnet Station all-you-care-to-eat dining hall and expanded meal swipe options on the second level.

“The Russell House is so special because it is the center of our campus, and everything revolves around it,” Hassett says. “Imagine how much more incredible our campus could be with a refreshed and newer space.” 

The Russell House’s 70th birthday bash will celebrate both the iconic student union and its dedicated employees who make it a home away from home for students.

“So many people have put a lot of work into making this event happen,” Hassett says. “We are so excited to watch it play out.”

You can share your memories of Russell House here, and be a part of the celebration on Oct. 16.