Advanced Search My Lists
You searched for: Physical Format Oral histories County Stearns
Home

Minnesota Digital Library

Search Results Header

Search Results

1. Interview with Alan Phillips (?- ), St. Cloud State University Oral History, St. Cloud, Minnesota

Creator:
St. Cloud State University
Date Created:
1982-05-14
Description:
In an oral history conducted by St. Cloud State University Professor of History Calvin (Cal) Gower on May 14, 1982, Alan Phillips provided a brief account of his educational career. Phillips received his undergraduate degree from Knox College in Illinois. Phillips attended the University of Chicago Divinity School for a year before dropping out and joining the army for two years. He then went to Michigan State where he got his master's and doctorate degrees in philosophy. He taught for one year at West Virginia University, and came to St. Cloud State in September 1966. Phillips chronicled how he became involved with the Faculty Association and collective bargaining. He devoted a great deal of time to discussing the election of 1975, a process he calls very difficult. Phillips discussed his opinions on the Inter-Faculty Organization (IFO) joining forces with the Minnesota Education Association (MEA), as well as what he considers to be the biggest differences between the IFO and the American Association of University Professors (AAUP). He talked about the strengths and weaknesses of the AAUP and what may have cost it the election. Phillips talked about the effects of the IFO/MEA's victory and how successful collective bargaining in general was for St. Cloud State faculty. He was reluctant to join the IFO after the AAUP was defeated. Phillips believed that more people should be able to join voluntarily, believing that forced membership was not as effective. He believed that collective bargaining was good economically for the faculty, but not been great for local decision-making. Phillips discussed his involvement on the IFO's Academic Affairs Committee. To end, he offered some suggestions for improving the IFO and current collective bargaining situation at St. Cloud State.
Contributing Institution:
St. Cloud State University
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

2. Interview with Alice Tripp, Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project, Belgrade, Minnesota

Creator:
Tripp, Alice
Date Created:
1977-12-06
Description:
Biographical Information: Tripp was a farmer from Belgrade in Stearns County. She was a protest leader and a candidate for Governor in 1978. Subjects discussed: Learning about the powerline project. Involvement in Keep Towers Out, Counties United for a Rural Environment, States United for a Rural Environment, and Coalition of Rural Environmental Groups. Reasons for the opposition-routing of line; health and safety concerns. Working with state government-personnel; Governor Perpich; legislators. Hearing process. Citizen's advisory committee. Underground wiring as alternative. Lawsuits. Mediation sessions. Confrontations. Energy needs for the future.
Contributing Institution:
Minnesota Historical Society
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

3. Interview with Andrew Marlow (1944- ), St. Cloud State University Oral History Collection, St. Cloud, Minnesota

Creator:
St. Cloud State University
Date Created:
1982-04-28
Description:
In an oral history conducted by St. Cloud State University Professor of History Calvin (Cal) Gower on April 28, 1982, Andrew Marlow described his family history, as well as his education and experiences at St. Cloud State. Marlow discussed his father, who was a member of the Sisseton Sioux Nation, as well as the story of how his parents met during World War II, marrying, and then moving to St. Paul. He explained his reasons to attend St. Cloud State after he graduated from high school in 1962, where he initially hoped to triple major in mathematics, chemistry, and physics. He later found those subjects too demanding and formed an interest in radio and television, which were only offered through the Speech department. Marlow decided to major in Speech but specialize in radio and television and had a hand in the founding of KVSC in 1967. Marlow chronicled his college career. He discussed professors such as E. Bryce Scott, who taught in the Speech department. He recalled certain things about life in St. Cloud, including students from the Iron Range who called themselves the "Rangers." Marlow explained his reasons for transferring to the University of Minnesota in 1964. He joined the National Guard as a medic to avoid the draft and was court-martialed for refusing to carry a weapon. Marlow returned to St. Cloud State in 1965. He discussed involvement in anti-war demonstrations, including when he and his friends threatened to burn a dog alive with napalm to illustrate its effects. He also included some general thoughts on how the Vietnam War affected the college and the city of St. Cloud. Marlow graduated in 1969. Marlow focused post-college career, including life in International Falls and his employment at the KUOM radio station. Marlow added thoughts about events that caused tension during his time at St. Cloud State, such as when some black students took over President Robert Wick's office. Marlow credited his time at St. Cloud State for forming him into the person he became.
Contributing Institution:
St. Cloud State University
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

4. Interview with Arnold Schneider (1909-2003), St. Cloud State University Oral History, St. Cloud, Minnesota

Creator:
St. Cloud State University
Date Created:
1986-01-07
Description:
In an oral history conducted by St. Cloud State University Professor of History Calvin (Cal) Gower on January 7, 1986, Arnold Schneider detailed his family and educational background. He was born in 1909. He attended high school in Wisconsin, and after graduation went to work for the Great Northern Railroad in Allouez, Wisconsin. He continued to work for the railroad while he put himself through junior college in Duluth, Minnesota, which he finished in two years. He then attended the Iowa State Teacher's College in Cedar Falls, Iowa, where he majored in Business Education. He graduated in 1932. After graduation, he went to Madison, South Dakota, where he taught at Eastern State College. He later worked as Junior Analyst for Merrill Lynch in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and also as an accountant for Ford Motor Company. That variety of work experience, Schneider claimed, made him very versatile and aware of the many different aspects of the business world. After receiving his master's degree from the University of Iowa in 1937, he was offered a position at St. Cloud State to begin a Business Education program. Schneider described how he came to work in Business Education at St. Cloud State. Schneider said that Minnesota had no program to prepare Business teachers until St. Cloud State president George Selke convinced the State University Board to allow St. Cloud to establish one. Schneider was contacted while he was working on his doctorate in Iowa, and jumped at the opportunity to come to St. Cloud. While the program officially began spring semester of 1938, it really took off that following fall. Schneider described the early days of the department, as well as the two other faculty members involved, Clair Dagget and Mary Ferro. Schneider remained in St. Cloud State until 1942, when he joined the Navy. After World War II, he returned the university for a year before obtaining a position at Western Michigan University, where he started a College of Business program. He retired in 1974. Schneider reflected on some of his other experiences, including that of working with World War II veterans. He believed that the GI Bill, which allowed veterans to attend college, had a huge effect on education in the United States. He greatly admired veterans as students, and believed they made his classroom a much more dynamic place than it had been before. He felt that state universities became the ""common man's school."" Schneider also talked about some of St. Cloud State faculty he remembers, such as Clifford Bemis, Herbert Clugston, and Roland Torgerson.
Contributing Institution:
St. Cloud State University
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

5. Interview with Arthur F. Grachek (1940- ), St. Cloud State University Oral History, St. Cloud, Minnesota

Creator:
St. Cloud State University
Date Created:
1982-03-31
Description:
In an oral history conducted by St. Cloud State University Professor of History Calvin (Cal) Gower on March 31, 1982, Arthur Grachek discussed his background, detailed his education, and his return to St. Cloud State University. Grachek graduated from Foley High School in 1958. He chose to attend St. Cloud State University and graduated with a bachelor's degree in Speech and Social Studies in 1962 and a master's degree in 1964. He taught at St. John's University in Minnesota, as well as at Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan, where he also received his doctorate. Grachek returned to St. Cloud State University in 1971, where he eventually became very involved in the Inter-Faculty Organization (IFO). He discussed how he became interested in collective bargaining and unions, crediting his family involvement with labor unions. Grachek said Ruth Cadwell, whose house he lived in for five years while attending St. Cloud State University, introduced him to the American Federation of Teachers (AFT). Grachek chronicled his first years at St. Cloud State and how he became heavily involved with the IFO. He discussed the idea that the IFO needed a political force to accompany it, which is why they found the Minnesota Education Association (MEA), which offered them tremendous support to establish a labor union for St. Cloud State faculty. Grachek described the work he did to educate people about the IFO-MEA, as well as his thoughts on why it was able to achieve victory, despite some initial resistance to the MEA. Grachek described hi ideas about the successes the IFO has achieved at St. Cloud State, including the fringe benefits it helped faculty obtain. He also discussed what he feels are problems with collective bargaining organizations, stating that some small local colleges lose their autonomy, which is something he hoped at the time would be remedied in the future.
Contributing Institution:
St. Cloud State University
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

6. Interview with Brendan McDonald (1930-1994) and LaVerne McDonald (1932-1998 ), St. Cloud State University Oral History Collection, St. Cloud, Minnesota

Creator:
St. Cloud State University
Date Created:
1982-10-18
Description:
In an oral history conducted by St. Cloud State University Professor of History Calvin (Cal) Gower on October 18, 1982, Brendan and LaVerne McDonald described their family history and early education. Born in 1930 in Regina, Saskatchewan, Brendan chronicled his family history, who came to Canada from Ireland shortly before he was born. He discussed reasons for wanting to attend college in America rather than Canada. After graduation from Balfour High School in Regina in 1949, Brendan arrived at St. Cloud State. His wife, LaVerne (Bangston), was born in 1932 in Willmar, Minnesota. After her 1950 high school graduation, she attended St. Cloud State. LaVerne said she wanted to teach because teachers were so in demand at the time. Brendan and LaVerne described experiences at St. Cloud State, from dorm life to the teachers that stood out to them. They claimed that President George Budd was personal with students and very involved with student life. LaVerne discussed life in Lawrence Hall and Shoemaker Hall. They described where most students came from, as well as whether or not students worked while attending school. They remembered the feeling of camaraderie among the students as well as their perceived relationship between the city of St. Cloud and the university. Brendan received his bachelor's degree in physical science and physical education in 1954, then went immediately to the University of Minnesota to get a master's degree in education. Shortly after graduation from the University of Minnesota, his student visa expired, forcing them to return to Canada for a year. The McDonalds chronicled life after graduating from St. Cloud State, including his stint in the university's registrar's office. They mentioned the international events that affected campus life when they attended St. Cloud State. They mentioned the Korean War, which they claimed worried many students, as well as Joe McCarthy's hunt for Communists as somewhat shocking, especially to Brendan, who was used to a more private Canadian government. LaVerne described the idea that the Third World was just starting to open at this time, being the beginning of international students coming to America. That, they believed, helped to change the perspective many Americans possessed for people living in Africa and other parts of the world.
Contributing Institution:
St. Cloud State University
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

7. Interview with Carl J. Buckman (1897-1988), St. Cloud State University Oral History, St. Cloud, Minnesota

Creator:
St. Cloud State University
Date Created:
1981-04-28
Description:
In an oral history conducted by St. Cloud State University Professor of History Calvin (Cal) Gower on April 28, 1981, Carl Buckman discussed his parents and their years working at the St. Cloud State Normal School. Buckman detailed his father John's work as Superintendent of Building and Grounds, as well as information about many of the school presidents and teachers, such as President Waite Shoemaker, who were influential to the school and the city. He also chronicled his schooling, which was interrupted both by the necessity to work as well as a stint in the Navy during World War I. In addition, Buckman provided insight into school teachers, such as Albertina Anderson and Darius Steward, personalities, teaching styles, and anecdotes. He touched on extracurricular activities at the Normal School, from sports (mainly football) to the drama club, of which he was a part. In addition, he discussed the relationship between the school and the St. Cloud community, claiming the school was the lifeline of the city. Buckman graduated in 1922. After graduation in 1922, Buckman detailed his teaching and educational experiences. He taught 20 years at South and Edison High Schools in Minneapolis before he and his wife Benita moved to Tucson, Arizona, where he stumbled upon a teaching position at the University of Arizona. He also discussed the effectiveness of the teachers at Normal School in preparing him and other students for the future, especially in terms of disciplinary matters. After 14 years in Arizona, Buckman returned to Minnesota.
Contributing Institution:
St. Cloud State University
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

8. Interview with Charles Graham (1929-), St. Cloud State University Oral History Collection, St. Cloud, Minnesota

Creator:
St. Cloud State University
Date Created:
1981-07-22
Description:
In an oral history conducted by St. Cloud State University Professor of History Calvin (Cal) Gower on July 22, 1981, Charles Graham discussed his family background and his educational history. He shared an anecdote about an ancestor who fought at the Battle of Waterloo. Graham discussed his college career and the internship he obtained in Washington, D.C., which gave him valuable political experience and sparked his interest in administration. Graham chronicled his years teaching in Wisconsin, including at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls and at Whitewater, as well as his time working with Wisconsin senator William Proxmire. He detailed his impressions of Whitewater, a town he described as tumultuous and heavily affected by the turmoil of the 1960s. Graham touched on his appointment to a New Mexico college that he eventually turned down. The appointment was controversial since Graham was not of Spanish origin in a community that was almost entirely Spanish. He saw St. Cloud State as a change of scenery as well as a good step for his career. Graham discussed his presidency at St. Cloud State (serving from 1971 to 1981), the changes he implemented, and general observations about the faculty and students. He focused on the advent of collective bargaining, discussing how it affected the faculty. Graham also gave attention to his goal to develop and polish more career-oriented programs outside of teaching. He also discussed his attempts to make students more internationally aware, as well as his goal to unify the campus physically after the rapid expansion of campus during the 1960s. Graham discussed the idea of consolidation, meaning he had attempted to take all these new programs that had been added to improve the academic quality to benefit the students.
Contributing Institution:
St. Cloud State University
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

9. Interview with Charles Martin (1909-1981), St. Cloud State University Oral History Collection, St. Cloud, Minnesota

Creator:
St. Cloud State University
Date Created:
1980-01-28
Description:
In an oral history conducted by St. Cloud State University Professor of History Calvin (Cal) Gower on January 28, 1980, Charles Martin described his early life. He was born in 1909 in Randall, Minnesota. His mother died in 1922, and he was an only child, so he and his father lived together until he graduated high school in Little Falls in 1927. Martin spoke of his decision to attend college to become a teacher. He shared several anecdotes about his time there, including how he met and became friends with St. Cloud State president George Selke, as well as his friendship with Miss Evelyn Pribble. He also recalled how his devotion to school plays and his job at the Royal Cafe distracted him from his studies and eventually made him sick, forcing him to miss a year of school. Martin mentioned the struggles he had returning to school during a time of such financial hardship. He recounted the story of how he was able to obtain a position directing school plays at the school, which allowed him to stay and receive his bachelor's degree in 1932. Martin chronicled his post-St. Cloud State life, as well as how terrified he was to student teach. He recalled the difficulty in obtaining work after graduation, but that he eventually found a good position in Sauk Rapids and, later, in Little Falls.
Contributing Institution:
St. Cloud State University
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

10. Interview with Clair Dagget (1909-1990), St. Cloud State University Oral History, St. Cloud, Minnesota

Creator:
St. Cloud State University
Date Created:
1987-01-28
Description:
In an oral history conducted by St. Cloud State University Professor of History Calvin (Cal) Gower on January 28, 1987, Clair Dagget discussed his educational and family background. He was born in Wisconsin in 1909. His family farmed in Omro, Wisconsin, where Dagget graduated from high school in 1927. Dagget then attended college in Whitewater, Wisconsin, where he received a bachelor's degree in Commercial Education, which would today be called Business Education. He detailed some roadblocks he encountered in his education due to family issues and accreditation problems between Iowa and Wisconsin universities. After stints teaching high school in Menominee and Kenosha, Wisconsin, Dagget pursued a master's degree at the University of Iowa. Dagget arrived at St. Cloud State University in 1939. He discussed his arrival to St. Cloud and his early years teaching at the university. Dagget detailed how small the Business Department initially was with only three faculty. In addition, he discussed his time in the Air Force during World War II, and how the G.I. Bill allowed him to obtain his doctorate when he returned from service. Dagget taught many veterans after his return, who were older than most students. Dagget focused on the changes at St. Cloud State, and in his own department, experienced during his 35 years at the university. For example, the Business department grew from three faculty to 50 at the time of the interview. Here, Dagget also discussed the different St. Cloud State presidents and their administration. He claimed that president George Budd discouraged university employees' involvement in downtown social clubs because Budd desired to be the sole connection between downtown and St. Cloud State. Dagget retired in 1974.
Contributing Institution:
St. Cloud State University
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

11. Interview with Clara Schrom Gruber, World War II Veterans Collection, St. Cloud State University, St. Cloud, Minnesota

Creator:
Gruber, Clara Schrom, 1921-2002
Date Created:
1989-12-07
Description:
This interview was conducted on December 7, 1989 by Nancy Baker. Clara Schrom Gruber was born in Albany, Minnesota, on July 3, 1921. After graduating high school in 1939, she enrolled in St. Cloud Hospital nurses training at Fort Leavenworth and Fort Riley, Kansas, finishing in 1942. In June 1943, Gruber entered the United States Army Nurse Corps as a first lieutenant. Gruber helped establish two general hospitals, one outside of London, the other near Glasgow, Scotland, where wounded soldiers were evacuated directly from the war zone. In addition to her nursing responsibilities Gruber described the German and Italian prisoners of war who were housed next to the hospital in Glasgow. Upon discharge from the Army in December 1945, Gruber returned to St. Cloud and worked as a private nurse at the St. Cloud Hospital. In 1946, she married Roland Gruber, a paratrooper during World War II, and they raised five children. She worked as a registered nurse at the St. Cloud VA Hospital from 1967 until she retired in 1981. In this interview Gruber also discussed her nurses training at the St. Cloud Hospital and being encouraged to enlist by one of the doctors, the benefits of having served, and life after returning to St. Cloud. Gruber passed away on July 5, 2002.
Contributing Institution:
St. Cloud State University
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

12. Interview with Claude Menzhuber, World War II Veteran Collection, St. Cloud State University, St. Joseph, Minnesota

Creator:
Menzhuber, Claude
Date Created:
1991-06-03
Description:
In an oral history conducted by David H. Overy on June 3, 1991, Claude Menzhuber discussed his experiences both in combat and post-war as a combat engineer and supply sergeant in the European Theater during World War II. Born and raised in Minnesota, Menzhuber was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1942. In this interview, Menzhuber described his training experiences as a combat engineer, both in basic and combat, as well as participating in the invasion of Sicily. He described the civilian's attitudes towards the American soldiers and briefly his conversations with German solider prisoners of war. Lastly, Menzhuber discussed his feelings about the Vietnam War and Desert Storm. He married his wife, Marian, in 1943 and they had two children, Carole and Lowell. Menzhuber was born on May 12, 1909, in Spring Hill, Minnesota, and passed away on March 21, 2005, in Sartell, Minnesota.
Contributing Institution:
St. Cloud State University
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

13. Interview with Donald Sikkink (1928- ), St. Cloud State University Oral History, St. Cloud, Minnesota

Creator:
St. Cloud State University
Date Created:
1990-05-01
Description:
In an oral history conducted by St. Cloud State University Archivist Jerry Westby on May 1, 1990, Donald Sikkink described his early educational background and career. He was born in 1928 in Minnesota. He grew up on a farm in southeast Minnesota, just south of Rochester. He graduated from Harmony Public High School in Harmony, Minnesota, in 1945, and then attended a Dutch Reformed College, Central College, in Pella, Iowa, until he was drafted in April 1946. Sikkink attended the University of Minnesota on his G.I. Bill. He received his bachelor's degree in 1949, his master's degree in 1951, and his doctorate in 1954. After teaching for two years at Stanford in Palo Alto, California, he received a job in the Speech Department at South Dakota State University. Sikkink arrived at St. Cloud State in 1963, explaining his first impressions of St. Cloud State. He claimed that he was surprised at how reluctant students were to speak up in class and express their thoughts and opinions. On the other hand, he was also surprised by how freely and openly the faculty spoke of their beliefs, causing him to believe that there was a greater sense of freedom among the faculty at St. Cloud than at the previous schools he had taught at. Sikkink discussed St. Cloud State president George Budd and his policies. In addition, he described the ways in which the speech department has changed. Sikkink explained the way that the city of St. Cloud had changed thinking of St. John's as their university to adopting St. Cloud State as the city's college, due to the tremendous growth and change undergone by the school during Sikkink's time there. Sikkink described what he considers to be his highs and lows while at St. Cloud State. He mentioned certain classes he enjoyed, such as the class he taught on parliamentary procedure. He also talked about the establishment of bachelor of Elective Studies degree, which he says was done as sort of an experiment. He explained his work in administration over the years. Sikkink expressed disappointment at the then-current situation where the faculty and administration were not getting along, claiming that the fighting was hurting the institution. Finally, Sikkink shared some anecdotes that describe some of his most memorable experiences at St. Cloud State University. He retired in 1990.
Contributing Institution:
St. Cloud State University
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

14. Interview with Donald U. Weiler, World War II Veterans Collection, St. Cloud State University, St. Cloud, Minnesota

Creator:
Weiler, Donald U., 1923-2011
Date Created:
1989-03-15
Description:
This interview was conducted on March 15, 1989 by David Overy. Donald Ursus Weiler was born July 12, 1923 in St. Cloud. He was drafted in spring 1943 and served as a machine gunner in the 34th Red Bull Infantry Division of the Army National Guard in North Africa and Italy. After being wounded in the leg during the Battle of Monte Cassino, he underwent an experimental treatment using a high-calcium diet at a hospital in North Africa. He spent a significant amount of time discussing how he would climb poles to listen for enemy movements and described at length the ways in which his unit would support riflemen and vehicle convoys as they advanced through Italy. While recovering and working in a military production factory in Iowa, Weiler met Thelma Ruth Lair, whom he married on January 27, 1945. Weiler lived his entire life in St. Cloud and had a long career as a service technician at the Typewriter Shop and later retired as a sales representative of Marco Business Products. As a recipient of the Purple Heart, Weiler dedicated time to supporting wounded and sick veterans at the St. Cloud Veterans Affairs Medical Center. He passed away on March 1, 2011 at the VA Center, and is buried at the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery at Camp Ripley. He was survived by two sons who followed him into the military; two daughters, and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Contributing Institution:
St. Cloud State University
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

15. Interview with Ed Schrom, Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project, Albany Township, Minnesota

Creator:
Schrom, Ed
Date Created:
1978-02-01
Description:
Biographical Information: Schrom was a native of Albany, Minnesota, where he lived and owned a farm at the time of the interview. In 1970 he was elected to the State Senate. He served on a number of commissions including Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Labor and Commerce. Subjects discussed: Background. Power Plant Siting Act. Why controversy arose. Eminent domain-validity of; use by utilities. Conflict of role as legislator and stance on controversy. Health hazard issues. Tower placement and section lines. Public hearings. Farm bill. Alternatives to line-coal. Future energy needs. Issue over declaring a moratorium. View of opposition-its tactics; organization of; impact on community. Role of Governor Perpich. Impact of costs of powerline and vandalism for citizens.
Contributing Institution:
Minnesota Historical Society
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

16. Interview with Eugene Perkins (1921-2004) and Lorraine Perkins (?- ), St. Cloud State University Oral History, St. Cloud, Minnesota

Creator:
St. Cloud State University
Date Created:
1982-04-02
Description:
In an oral history conducted by St. Cloud State University Professor of History Calvin (Cal) Gower on April 2, 1982, Eugene and Lorraine Perkins discussed their family history, as well as their reasons for attending St. Cloud State. Lorraine chronicled the long history her family had with the St. Cloud State, as her grandfather attended the Normal School and roomed with Waite Shoemaker. Many of her aunts and several other relatives also attended the university. Eugene mentioned they lived close to the university and his dad worked with there. Lorraine said she wanted to go to Carleton College to become a writer. But the Depression prevented her from doing so, as Carleton College was expensive. So, she decided to become an English teacher. Eugene also discussed his time in World War II, which interrupted his college studies. Lorraine arrived at St. Cloud State in 1938, while Eugene first attended in 1939. They met in 1939. Lorraine talked about her varying living situations, including a year in Shoemaker Hall. Eugene also discussed the GI Bill, which of course brought many veterans to the school. Eugene described his time at the Eastman House, which was housing for returning GIs. Both Eugene and Lorraine oversaw and lived for a time in Eastman House. Lorraine and Eugene also described some of the extracurricular activities on campus, such as literary societies, sports, and different clubs such as the photo club, which Eugene belonged to. Lorraine and Eugene chronicled their experiences after leaving St. Cloud. Lorraine talked about being hired in Hayward, Minnesota, before being married, then being told to return her contract, as they did not hire married teachers. She gave up teaching for 20 years to raise her family. Eugene talked about the path that led him to pursue counseling; he taught in Paynesville, Minnesota, for three years while taking graduate classes at the University of Minnesota, with a focus on guidance and counseling. After receiving his master's degree, he went to Cincinnati, where he worked as a counselor and a school psychologist. He returned to St. Cloud State in 1958, eventually receiving his doctorate from University of Northern Colorado. Lorraine wanted to return to school, receiving a master's degree in 1967. She chronicled the establishment in 1968 and her work in the Writing Skills Center, which she believed was the only place for some students, especially foreign students, to get help. They described their support of international students. Finally, they expressed their approval of the vast physical changes undergone by St. Cloud State in the 1960s and 1970s, resulting in a beautiful campus.
Contributing Institution:
St. Cloud State University
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

17. Interview with Francis (Fran) Voelker (1931-2012), St. Cloud State University Oral History, St. Cloud, Minnesota

Creator:
St. Cloud State University
Date Created:
1982-03-30
Description:
In an oral history conducted by St. Cloud State University Professor of History Calvin (Cal) Gower on March 30, 1982, Francis (Fran) Voelker gave a brief history of his education and background. Fran was born in Thorp, Wisconsin. He went to St. John's University, then entered the military for a few years. When he got out of the service in 1955, he accepted a job teaching high school English in Foley, Minnesota, where he stayed for four years. During that time, he pursued his master's degree, which he received in 1959. Voelker discussed his experience with the Faculty Association and collective bargaining in general. Voelker chronicled his early experiences with the Minnesota Education Association (MEA) in Foley, as well as the motivations of St. Cloud State faculty to actively pursue collective bargaining. Voelker believed that many faculty members felt that salaries were bad and their voices were not heard, so frustration began to build until they decided to do something about it. Voelker said the reasons to join the MEA was good, claiming that they had a good training program and a professionalism that really helped the Inter-Faculty Organization (IFO). Voelker focused on the election in 1975 and said that even if the American Association of University Professors (AAUP) won the election, he would have joined, as most faculty simply wanted some form of representation. Voelker discussed the work he did with the IFO after the election, including lobbying during state legislature to get funding and meet negotiation deadlines. Voelker believed that collective bargaining was very successful in defining roles. He said the adversary relationship that resulted between administration and faculty was unfortunate, but did not have to be a result of collective bargaining. It was something he hoped would be amended in the future.
Contributing Institution:
St. Cloud State University
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

18. Interview with Freda Snicker Lindenberg (1900-?), St. Cloud State University Oral History, St. Cloud, Minnesota

Creator:
St. Cloud State University
Date Created:
1980-02-04
Description:
In an oral history conducted by St. Cloud State University Professor of History Calvin (Cal) Gower on February 4, 1980, Freda Snicker Lindenberg talked about her family history as well as education and early teaching career. She was born on March 8, 1900, in Winfield Township, Minnesota. Her parents emigrated from Sweden at different times, who married in 1884 and had 10 children. During her last year at Oliva high school, she took one year of normal training, which inspired her to be a teacher. Immediately after high school Lindenberg began teaching, including at Minnehaha Park School in Minneapolis After teaching for a few years, she decided to attend St. Cloud State to obtain her teacher's certificate. She discussed those early years of her teaching career, some of which were spent being the sole teacher in a one-room school. Lindenberg focused on her experiences at St. Cloud State. She chose to attend simply because she had heard much about the school and because its close proximity to Olivia. She loved her time at St. Cloud, and described a few of her favorite teachers, including Miss Louisa Van Dyke and Darius Steward. She also mentioned her extracurricular activities, which included membership in the Avon Literary Society, as well as a part in the senior class play of ""Romeo and Juliet."" In addition, Lindenberg chronicled what she and her friends did for fun, including going downtown to trade or attending football and basketball games. She graduated in 1927. Lindenberg discussed her post-college teaching career and life. Here she briefly described the teaching positions she held in Faribault, Owatonna, and Hutchinson, Minnesota, and said that she always loved teaching and working with children. She also mentioned her husband, who she married in 1929. Lindenberg briefly addressed the Depression, which was just sort of emerging as she attended St. Cloud State.
Contributing Institution:
St. Cloud State University
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

19. Interview with Gary Botzek (1950- ), St. Cloud State University Oral History Collection, St. Cloud, Minnesota

Creator:
St. Cloud State University
Date Created:
1982-04-30
Description:
In an oral history conducted by St. Cloud State University Professor of History Calvin (Cal) Gower on April 30, 1982, Gary Botzek spoke about his Polish and German ancestors, who came to Benton County to farm. He also discussed the consolidation process that his local school in Sauk Rapids underwent, forcing him to finish high school in Foley. He also talked about choosing St. Cloud State University. admitting that he was not prepared to make a leap to a city, since he grew up in such a small rural area. Botzek chronicled his time at St. Cloud State University. He spoke about the process of how he chose a major and career path, as well as influential professors and student government. Botzek also discussed the explosive reaction of St. Cloud State students to the U.S. invasion of Cambodia and Laos, as well as the Kent State riots. Botzek discussed his feelings on the situation as someone involved in student government, and how it was handled by the university. He explained the relationship between the St. Cloud community and the university, claiming that they are both parts of the same structure, and thus worked well together. Botzek graduated in 1972, majoring in Political Science. Botzek discussed his post-collegiate career, especially his internship with Minnesota congressman John Zach, The internship opened several doors for him and allowed him to work in government for ten straight years, including his 1979 appointment as special assistant to Minnesota governor Al Quie. Botzek gave much credit to his St. Cloud State academic and extracurricular activities for providing him with the necessary tools to forge such a successful career.
Contributing Institution:
St. Cloud State University
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

20. Interview with George Budd (1915-2009), St. Cloud State University Oral History Collection, St. Cloud, Minnesota

Creator:
St. Cloud State University
Date Created:
1981-07-28
Description:
In an oral history conducted by St. Cloud State University Professor of History Calvin (Cal) Gower on July 28, 1981, George Budd discussed his family history and educational background. Born in 1915 in Oswego, New York, Budd talked about pursuing an education during the Great Depression, as well as his family's reaction to his decision to teach. Budd delayed college for three years after high school and then attended the Oswego Normal School. After graduation, Budd taught for three years before moving to Buffalo, New York, to earn his bachelor's degree. Budd served in the Air Force during World War II, which made it possible for him to earn a master's and doctorate degrees at Columbia University. This led him to administrative positions at Washington State and in Oneonta, New York. He also in detailed the process by which he pursued the St. Cloud State presidency, a post he served from 1952 to 1965. Budd left in 1965 to become the president of Pittsburg State University in Kansas. Budd felt that he was unprepared for the St. Cloud State presidency, not really knowing what to expect. He discussed the tremendous growth in population, both in St. Cloud itself as well as at the university, and its affect on his administration. Budd provided a detailed account of how the change from a teacher's college to a state university transformed the campus, leading to new buildings, a complete makeover of the curriculum, and the growth in community involvement. Budd tackled a variety of other topics, from the change in student demeanor and activity throughout his years as president, from those accomplishments he is most proud of, including the establishment of a summer theatre and the Alexandria-St. Cloud State College Performing Arts Foundation, and of the importance of the Alumni Foundation. He also talked about the idea that this was a period of tremendous growth throughout the country, and he simply tried to help St. Cloud State adapt to growing needs and desires of students who did not want to be teachers.
Contributing Institution:
St. Cloud State University
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

21. Interview with George J. Benson (1898-1982), St. Cloud State University Oral History, St. Cloud, Minnesota

Creator:
St. Cloud State University
Date Created:
1981-01-21
Description:
In an oral history conducted by St. Cloud State University Professor of History Calvin (Cal) Gower on January 21, 1981, George Benson described his family background. Born in 1898 in St. Cloud, Benson's parents immigrated to the United States in the late 1880s from Sweden. His father worked as a blacksmith in the St. Cloud quarries, while his mother worked as a maid for the Alice and Albert Whitney family. Benson discussed his relationships with several teachers as well as his participation in and recollection of extracurricular activities. He graduated from the St. Cloud State in 1920. Benson had short-lived teaching experiences in both North and South Dakota before receiving his B.S. from Bradley University in Illinois. He then moved to the Panama Canal Zone to teach for five years, where he and his wife started a family. Benson discussed his time in Atlanta, where he received his Master's Degree and taught for 25 years in the same room. Later Benson described his return to St. Cloud, as well as the education of his two sons, who also attended St. Cloud State University.
Contributing Institution:
St. Cloud State University
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

22. Interview with Harvey Waugh (1902-1978), St. Cloud State University Oral History, St. Cloud, Minnesota

Creator:
St. Cloud State University
Date Created:
1974 - 1976
Description:
In an oral history conducted by St. Cloud State University librarians Norman Clarke and Lawrence Busse on February 14, 1974, February 25, 1975, November 26, 1975, and February 18, 1976, Harvey Waugh discussed his family background and a wide range of topics related to St. Cloud State. Born in Clarksville, Iowa, in 1902, Waugh worked at the Iowa State Teacher's College before offered a position at St. Cloud State by President George Selke. Waugh described how different things were when he first came to St. Cloud State, and how there was a great lack of organization, of departments, and of staff, along with very poor buildings. Other faculty members are also discussed including presidents George Selke, Dudley Brainard, and George Budd, music faculty Helen Grime, Roger Barrett, and Helen Hulls, also Amy Dale of English, who wrote the lyrics of the school hymn which Waugh set to music. Waugh talked about the various buildings that were part of campus in his early years here. He discussed Eastman Hall, as well as the wonderful Christmas parties that were held in Shoemaker Hall, by invitation. Other aspects of campus living are touched upon, including Mrs. Alice Whitney's presence, being head of a men's dorm, and Quonset huts. He mentioned Selke's great oratorical ability, especially in convincing young people from the Iron Range to come to St. Cloud State. Waugh discussed St. Cloud State president George Budd and his reputation at the university. Waugh described the various programs and plays he helped produce during his time at St. Cloud State, from ""South Pacific"" to ""West Side Story."" He mentioned taking one of his productions, ""The Pajama Game,"" on a European tour in the 1960s. Waugh proudly said that the plays always had a full orchestra and that his choir was called upon to give performances at various conferences and prestigious events. The status of buildings around as well as the construction of new ones, are a frequent topic in the interviews. The plans and building of the current Performing Arts Center as well as his tri-collegiate choral group are mentioned in detail. Information relating to Stewart Hall's construction, the Kiehle library, the Old Main Building and having to share space with other departments is also referenced.
Contributing Institution:
St. Cloud State University
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

23. Interview with Herb Goodrich (1926-2006), St. Cloud State University Oral History, St. Cloud, Minnesota

Creator:
St. Cloud State University
Date Created:
1990-05-15
Description:
In an oral history conducted by St. Cloud State University Archivist Jerry Westby on May 15, 1990, Herb Goodrich explained his family and educational history. He was born in Manhattan, and raised in Brooklyn, New York. His father emigrated from Russia, while his mother was from Poland. Goodrich attended the City College of New York, where he received his bachelor's degree in Education. Goodrich then went to Penn State, where he received his master's degree and then earned his doctorate in Mass Communications from the University of Illinois. He highlighted his upbringing in the very urban Brooklyn, New York, and the vast differences between that world and St. Cloud, Minnesota. Goodrich arrived at St. Cloud State in 1964. He discussed his first years at St. Cloud State, comparing them with the university in 1990. For instance, he talked about how the huge growth in student population was accompanied by a failure of the state of Minnesota to provide sufficient funds and resources to deal with that growth. He claimed that the growth contributed to a decline in familiarity and personal connections among staff, as well as a greater focus on publishing rather than the classroom. Goodrich described how the students themselves changed during his time at St. Cloud State. He claimed that when he arrived in the 1960s, students were very demanding and not afraid to question what was being taught. In 1990, he felt that students were much quieter, and that there had been somewhat of a withdrawal from active learning. Goodrich discussed the St. Cloud State's perception as a ""party"" school, and how that has affected both students and faculty. Goodrich discussed the relationship between the university and the community of St. Cloud. Here he felt his ideas about universities was often seen as a threat to a conservative community, and how St. Cloud State fit into that idea. Goodrich discussed the highs and lows he experienced as a teacher, and how both relate to his impact, or lack thereof, on his students. Overall, he gave an insightful analysis of how the school changed, both on a large scale, and on a smaller scale by discussing changes within his own department, and credited the university for 26 years of wonderful academic and teaching experience. Goodrich retired in 1990.
Contributing Institution:
St. Cloud State University
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

24. Interview with Inez Kronenberg (1937- ), St. Cloud State University Oral History, St. Cloud, Minnesota

Creator:
St. Cloud State University
Date Created:
1989-05-05
Description:
In an oral history conducted by Robert Nelson on May 5, 1989, Inez Kronenberg described her family history and early life. She was born in 1937 in St. Cloud, Minnesota. Her family had a farm in St. Augusta, Minnesota, where they had been since the 1850s. Her family farmed until her father lost an arm in an accident, after which he became an auctioneer. Her mother died when she was 12. Kronenberg addressed the reasons she chose to begin working after high school rather than attend college. She claimed that despite the fact that she had a scholarship, she did not feel prepared, or confident enough, to attend college. When she obtained a clerical job at St. Cloud State in 1955, she was very proud of that accomplishment. Kronenberg discussed that she slowly attended classes while she worked, and was able to eventually obtain an associate degree in 1974 and a bachelor's degree in 1979. Kronenberg discussed on her work at St. Cloud State, her responsibilities in the academic dean's office, where she spent the majority of her career, along with her reasons for eventually leaving that position. She described the many moves within St. Cloud State that she made, including stints in the library, International Studies, and Career Planning and Placement, which were largely due to personal reasons. Kronenberg chronicled her involvement with the union of ""classified"" employees, the Local 753, Council 6. She mentioned her role in the statewide strike of 1981, and the fact that she was in charge of putting out the newsletter. She believed that there needed to be more uniformity in terms of pay, and felt that the strike was successful in getting closer to that goal. Kronenberg described her impressions of how students, governance, and other aspects of the university have changed during her time spent working for the institution. She discussed veterans, both from the Korean and Vietnam wars, and her thoughts on how they adapted to college life. Kronenberg talked about the idea that the easy availability of financial aid has made students, to some extent, less hardworking and focused. However, she also credited current students with being more confident and aware of what was going on in the world. She also discussed the drinking habits of students, along with her ideas about international students, non-traditional students, and racial tension on campus. Kronenberg explained the ways in which she believes the relationship between the university and the city of St. Cloud has been strengthened in more recent years.
Contributing Institution:
St. Cloud State University
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories

25. Interview with James A. Grunerud, World War II Veterans Collection, St. Cloud State University, St. Cloud, Minnesota

Creator:
Grunerud, James A., 1917-2010
Date Created:
1990-05-09 - 1990-06-06
Description:
This was an interview conducted on May 9 and June 6, 1990 by David Overy. James Grunerud was born on December 11, 1917 in Waseca, Minnesota. Shortly after his birth, his parents moved back to Saskatchewan, Canada, where he grew up on a farm. After graduating high school, he enlisted in the Royal Canadian Dragoons (First Armored Regiment) in 1940, shortly after the Battle of Dunkirk. Grunerud arrived in England during the height of the Battle of Britain and he described the aftermath of the Germans bombing an elementary school and a movie theatre filled with children. Gross was involved in military action in Sicily, Italy, France (D-Day), Germany, Belgium, and Holland. From September 1943 to May 1944, he saw action in Italy, including at Monte Cassino. He was wounded in action three times. Grunerud told of a visit to Bergen-Belsen concentration camp shortly after it was liberated. After the war was over and while waiting to be evacuated, Grunerud had the opportunity to travel in Europe.
Contributing Institution:
St. Cloud State University
Type:
Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:
Oral histories
Download JSON