Interviewer
Cynthia Wilson
Files
Abstract
This interview, conducted on January 22, 1979, by Cynthia Wilson for The Johnsonian, the student newspaper of Winthrop University, documents the experiences of Cynthia Plair Roddey, the first African American student admitted to Winthrop College following desegregation.
Roddey reflects on her decision to attend Winthrop in 1964, citing convenience, family responsibilities, and access to graduate coursework in library science as primary motivations. She recounts her arrival on campus, her desire to minimize attention and avoid publicity, and the precautions taken by college officials and local authorities to ensure her safety. She also describes the strong support she received from her family and local community.
The interview details Roddey’s experiences as a student, including her academic work, her limited social interaction with other students, and her perception of being largely ignored rather than openly harassed. She contrasts these experiences with those at historically Black institutions and reflects on the challenges of balancing graduate study with family and professional responsibilities.
Roddey further discusses her career following graduation, including her work as an educator and media specialist, and the difficulties she encountered in securing employment. She offers commentary on student activism, race relations, and the changing nature of student engagement in the post–Civil Rights era. Concluding with advice to students, Roddey emphasizes perseverance, discipline, and the importance of sustained effort in achieving academic and professional success.
Publication Date
1-22-1979
Unique Identifier
OH 062
Format
Cassette; WAV; MP3
Length
00:09:27
Restrictions
This interview is open for use.
Series
Alumni, Civil Rights Movement, History 509, Integration
Disciplines
Oral History
Keywords
Integration, Segregation, Desegregation, Civil Rights Movement, Racism, Teaching, Arnetta Gladden Mackey, MAT, NAACP, American Dream, Politics, Family, XI Delta chapter of Sigma Beta Sorority
Recommended Citation
Roddey, Cynthia Plair and Integration, "Interview with Cynthia Plair Roddey - OH 62" (1979). Winthrop University Oral History Program. OH 062.
https://digitalcommons.winthrop.edu/oralhistoryprogram/166
LC Subject Headings
Roddey, Cynthia P. (Cynthia Plair)--Interviews; Winthrop College, the South Carolina College for Women--Alumni and alumnae; Winthrop College, the South Carolina College for Women--Students--History; African American college students--South Carolina--Rock Hill--History--20th century; African American college students--South Carolina--Rock Hill--Social life and customs; College students--South Carolina--Rock Hill--Social life and customs; African Americans--South Carolina--Rock Hill--Social conditions--1964-1975; College integration--South Carolina--Rock Hill--History--20th century