Interviewer
Emily Deinert
Files
Abstract
Interview conducted by Emily Deinert on February 27, 2018, for the Louise Pettus Archives and Special Collections Oral History Program. Interviewee Zeta Gardner Sistare, Winthrop alumna (two-year business/associate degree, class of 1955), recounts her upbringing on Flat Creek near Lancaster, her large Gardner family, and early schooling.
Sistare describes why she chose Winthrop (family connections, relatives in Rock Hill, and a work scholarship), her campus and residential experience (Bancroft, McLaurin, roommate anecdotes), and college routines—uniforms, weekly room inspections, family-style dining, study hours, and student activities. She worked in the Bursar’s office, took required business courses (shorthand, typing, economics), and remembers faculty such as Professor Sturgis and Mrs. Bass. Sistare also recalls social traditions (class events, dunking in the campus fountain) and intramural/physical-education requirements.
Following Winthrop, she held civil service work at Shaw AFB, married a Navy man (Joe Sistare), accompanied him during military service, and later worked in school offices and as a teacher’s aide. She reflects on family life (three children; one attended Winthrop briefly, others attended USC) and long-term community involvement.
A devoted Winthrop basketball fan, Sistare has followed the program since its early years and remains an enthusiastic supporter. She credits Winthrop with practical training and confidence that aided her career and life.
Publication Date
2-27-2018
Unique Identifier
OH 527
Format
MP3; WAV;
Length
01:13:45
Restrictions
Open under the rules and regulations of the Louise Pettus Archives and Special Collections at Winthrop University
Recommended Citation
Sistare, Zeta Gardner, "Interview with Zeta Gardner Sistare" (2018). Winthrop University Oral History Program. OH 527.
https://digitalcommons.winthrop.edu/oralhistoryprogram/773