Collections : [Indiana University, Center for Documentary Research and Practice]

Born on October 24, 1943, John W. Brooks came to Indiana University in 1962 on a track scholarship and stayed to earn his undergraduate, masters, and doctoral degrees. Brooks then began his career working the Department of Financial Aid at Indiana University and progressed through various positions to his current job as the Director of Corporate and Foundation Relations at the university. Brooks speaks of his many experiences at Indiana University as an African-American including those involving racism, segregation, integration, interracial dating, and the Civil Rights Movement. In addition, Brooks speaks of his involvement in the fraternity, Omega Psi Chi, and the environment of the community of Bloomington, Indiana. He also discusses the minority students at Indiana University, the Groups program, and the development of plans for the Neal Marshall Black Culture Center. He cites Herman Hudson and Jimmy Ross as two colleagues who exerted much positive influence at the university.

Harry Day came to Indiana University in 1940 as a chemistry professor and remained at Bloomington for the rest of his career. Day tells the story of the discovery of Crest toothpaste. He also talks about the changes that have taken place at the University since the nineteen forties, the development of the chemistry department, the effects of national events, like the Civil Rights Movement, on Indiana University, and the different Indiana University presidents and their legacies.

Born in 1945, William G. Mays is a 1968 Indiana University alumnus who received his MBA degree from the university in 1973. He went on to establish his own multi-million dollar business. Mays speaks of his days as a student at the university in the nineteen sixties and his experiences with racism, fellow African-American students, and the Greek system. In addition, he recalls the assassination of president John F. Kennedy, the Vietnam War, and the repercussions of both. A recipient of the distinguished alumni award, Mays has been involved with the Indiana University Foundation.

Judith Palmer, born April 2, 1948 in Washington, IN, is an Indiana University Bloomington Alumni and attended Indianapolis Law School from 1968-1973. While attending school Palmer worked in state budget agency. She served as executive assistant to Govern Otis Bowen from 1977 to 1981. Palmer eventually ended up back at IU as special assistant to President John Ryan. In this interview she discusses Indiana University in the 1960s, IU Law School, her time in state government, and changes IU has undergone since the 1960s.