Glenda Akin, a retired teacher from Tennessee, has been witness to significant historical events throughout her life and has now etched her own mark in history.
Aged 84, Akin has been officially recognized by Guinness World Records as the longest-serving female teacher at a single school.
Reflecting on her achievement, Akin shared, “I cherished my profession. Waking up and heading to school daily was never a chore for me.”
She added, “With all my family members gone, the school community essentially became my extended family.”
‘Dedication to Education Across a Lifetime’
Prior to her retirement last year, Akin dedicated 61 years and 43 days to Westmoreland High School, initially as a teacher and later as a librarian.
Her tenure surpasses that of Paul Durietz, the longest-serving male teacher recognized by Guinness, who spent 54 years and 61 days at Woodland School in Gurnee, Ill., as of October 2024.
Akin recounted witnessing one of her students progress from a pupil to a teacher at the same school and eventually retire a decade before she did.
“Ms. Akin’s unwavering commitment to education has influenced numerous generations of students, leaving an indelible legacy within our school and community,” mentioned a post on Westmoreland High School’s Facebook page honoring Akin’s accomplishment.
Akin expressed surprise at the overwhelming attention she has received. Initially expecting the news to reach only the school community when Westmoreland shared it, she stated, “The news spread far and wide. I’m even discussing this with someone in Canada. It’s truly remarkable.”
Evolution Amidst Technological Advancements
Throughout her extensive career, Akin, fondly known as Ms. Akin within the school, guided multiple student cohorts through eras of significant social and technological transformations.
Born on Dec. 7, 1941