Professor Vasily Dimitrievich Dimitriev as a Teacher of Higher Education

One of the most important factors determining the development of the Russian society is the state of Russian higher education. The probability of solving problems in this area will be higher when learning from the experience of the past. The activities of outstanding teachers who completed their life path, but left an enduring legacy, can serve as guidelines in this regard. A special place in this galaxy is occupied by Doctor of Historical Sciences, Professor of I.N. Ulianov Chuvash State University, V.D. Dimitriev (1924–2013). The purpose of the study is to identify the specifics of V.D. Dimitriev’s work as a teacher of higher education. Materials and methods. The work is based on the author’s personal memories. Reference to scientific literature (monographs and dissertation research) also occupies a certain place. The article uses the methods of analysis and synthesis, as well as the chronological method. Study results. The article analyzes the activities of Professor V.D. Dimitriev as a teacher of higher education. The author characterizes various aspects of V.D. Dimitriev’s work at the Historical Faculty of the Chuvash State University in the late XX – early XXI centuries: work as a lecturer; academic advising to students performing final qualifying works; scientific guidance of post-graduate students. The professor’s communication with colleagues is also in the focus of attention. Conclusions. Working within the walls of the university, reducing the time of V.D. Dimitriev’s own scientific activity, gave him the opportunity to create a scientific school. The conclusion is made about the diverse influence of the professor on students and postgraduates: it concerned not only the research field, but forming a value system for young people as well.