Susan Russ, born on June 7, 1943, built an illustrious career as a teacher, coach, and athletic director before being honored with induction into the TSSAA Hall of Fame in 2008. Over her 39-year tenure from 1968 to 2007, Russ made significant contributions to athletics in Tennessee, initially making her mark at Memphis State University. Here, she launched the first women’s track and field program in 1969, followed by pioneering the first women’s cross-country program in 1971.

Transitioning to Harpeth Hall High School in 1979, Russ's coaching legacy flourished. Her leadership drove the school's track and field team to win 12 TSSAA State Championships, capturing the title of runner-up nine times, and securing 19 Regional Championships, alongside two Track Team Relays State Championships. Her expertise also extended to cross country, where she steered the team to six TSSAA State Championships and dominated regional competition with 21 titles.

In addition to her coaching duties, Russ served as the Athletic Director at Harpeth Hall High School from 1986 to 2005, further solidifying her role in shaping student athletes' lives and athletic programs. Throughout her career, Russ amassed a total of 20 TSSAA State Championships across different track and field and cross-country events. Notably, her 12 Track and Field State Championships stand as the highest number in Tennessee’s history, underlining her exceptional contribution to high school athletics.

Her service and success were recognized by the TSSAA through a Distinguished Service Recognition award, emphasizing her significant contributions and dedication to student-athletes and the sports community in Tennessee. Russ was also named Tennessee State Track Coach of the Year three times and received the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Sectional Coach of the Year for the South Region award in 2003. Her remarkable career was further celebrated with inductions into the Memphis State University Hall of Fame in 1987 and the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame in 2005, culminating in her well-deserved entry into the TSSAA Hall of Fame in 2008.

TSSAA Hall of Fame
Class: 2008
Category: Coach