The article outlines the life and professional development of Raisa Vasilyevna Degtyareva, doctor of historical sciences, professor, head of the Department of History and the permanent Academic Secretary of the Academic Council of SPbPU for many years. The article describes R.N. Degtyareva’s main achievements as a scientist and as an administrator. The article is published in connection with R.N. Degtyareva’s 75th anniversary and her great contributions to the development of the university.