July 8, 2025
The AIA is deeply saddened to share the passing of Dr. James (Jim) Russell, Professor Emeritus of Greek and Roman Art and Archaeology at the University of British Columbia and former President of the Archaeological Institute of America (AIA). Dr. Russell passed away peacefully at the age of 89.
Dr. Russell was the first AIA President from outside the United States and dedicated more than 35 years to advancing the field of classical archaeology. He is best known for directing the excavations at Anemurium in Turkey (1970–1987), which shed light on life in the Roman and Byzantine periods.
Throughout his distinguished career, Dr. Russell served the AIA in numerous leadership roles including President, First Vice President, and Academic Trustee. He was also a driving force in the AIA-Vancouver Society, where he acted as President, Secretary, and Society Contact.
Admired as a gifted lecturer, beloved tour leader, and committee member, Dr. Russell received the 2006 Martha and Artemis Joukowsky Distinguished Service Award and served as the AIA’s Charles Eliot Norton Lecturer in 1995–1996. In his and his wife’s honor, the AIA established the James and Jenny Russell Lecture. The inaugural Russell Lecture was given at the Vancouver, British Columbia, Society.
Dr. Russell’s dedication to the field left an enduring legacy that continues to inspire many. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, colleagues, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
