Married in 1934, Katherine Smith and Russell Tegnell met as students at Oregon State College. Socially active, both were involved in OSC's Greek life (Katherine in Alpha Delta Pi and Russell in Alpha Delta Sigma). Russell was also involved in politics on campus, including stints as Chairman of the Homecoming Committee and President of the Memorial Union from 1935 to 1936. Both graduating in 1936, Katherine earned a degree from the College of Home Economics while Russell completed a degree in Engineering.