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Description
Oral history interview with Illinois State Normal University alumnus Marjorie Munns Risser, Class of 1944. The interview was conducted on November 3, 1979, by Denise Cook of ISU Alumni Services.
Risser reminisces about the small student body size of ISNU during her time there, as well as intimate interactions with faculty and staff and the tight-knit campus community. She discusses various aspects of campus life, including academic pursuits, extracurricular activities, campus facilities, and social events. She fondly remembers a number of faculty members and university staff, including Dr. F. L. D. Holmes, Dr. Sorrenson, Miss Yates, Dick Browne, Coach Joe Cogdal, and Bernice “Bunny” Frey. President Raymond Fairchild she recalls as a dignified, gracious gentleman known for his personal involvement in campus activities. To her mind, campus life emphasized unity, with frequent mandatory assemblies.
Risser reflects on significant historical events such as World War II and its impact on the university, as many students enlisted in the military following the attack on Pearl Harbor. She also provides insights into the local communities of Normal and Bloomington, detailing popular spots and social activities. The interview concludes with Risser expressing gratitude for her university experience and reminiscing about the memorable times she experienced at her alma mater.
Interview Date
11-3-1979
Biographical Statement
Marjorie Alice Munns (1922-1997) was born to Robert and Alice (Callahan) Munns in Peoria, Illinois. She received a bachelor’s degree in speech from Illinois State Normal University in 1944 and a master’s degrees in the same subject in 1961. She married Robert Risser in 1948; together they had two daughters. For the majority of her career she taught English, speech and drama at Olympia High School near Stanford, Illinois, retiring in 1987.
Recommended Citation
Risser, Marjorie Alice, "Interview with Marjorie Risser, Class of 1944" (1944). Alumni Oral Histories. 10.
https://ir.library.illinoisstate.edu/aoh/10