Interviewer
Emily Deinert
Files
Abstract
This oral history interview was conducted by Emily Deinert, audio/visual archivist at the Louise Pettus Archives and Special Collections, with Mrs. Doris Ezell-Schmitz, a Winthrop alumna (Class of 1973 and 1975) and longtime resident of Rock Hill, South Carolina. In the interview, Mrs. Ezell-Schmitz reflects on her childhood in Rock Hill and her early impressions of Winthrop College during the era of segregation. She discusses her family’s influence on her decision to attend Winthrop in 1967, shortly after the institution’s integration, and recounts her experiences as an African American student navigating campus life during that transitional period.
Mrs. Ezell-Schmitz describes her academic experiences as an English and education major, campus traditions, dormitory life, student organizations, friendships, and the challenges and opportunities she encountered at Winthrop. She also discusses experiences with racism on and off campus, including an incident following the annual “blueline” church service, as well as the support systems and community she found during her time at the university.
The interview highlights Mrs. Ezell-Schmitz’s long career as a middle school English teacher, her passion for language and writing, and the lasting influence of Winthrop on her personal and professional life. She reflects on influential professors, particularly creative writing instructor Bob Bristow, graduate study opportunities, and her participation in the Association of Ebonites student organization. Mrs. Ezell-Schmitz also discusses how Winthrop shaped her worldview, career, family traditions, and commitment to education, noting that both of her daughters and one son-in-law also attended the university.
Publication Date
2-26-2018
Unique Identifier
OH 797
Format
Wav; MP3;
Length
00:59:47
Restrictions
Open under the rules and regulations of the Louise Pettus Archives and Special Collections at Winthrop University
Recommended Citation
Ezell-Schmitiz, Doris, "Interview with Doris "Dorothy" Ezell-Schmitz - OH 797" (2018). Winthrop University Oral History Program. OH 797.
https://digitalcommons.winthrop.edu/oralhistoryprogram/772