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Description
Oral history interview with Illinois State Normal University alum Bette Jane (Irwin) Otto, Class of 1963. The interview was conducted on October 29, 1983, by Diane Lane, then a member of the Student Alumni Council. Otto describes the early 60s as a “growing period” at ISNU/ISU as enrollment doubled and restrictions were relaxed.
Otto reflects on her memories of campus life, highlighting the strict dormitory rules, including curfews enforced by Honor Residents and Key Girls, as well as the close-knit nature of the student body and faculty. The interview touches on the significance of President Robert G. Bone, who was well-known and personally connected with many students. She reminisces about notable professors and administrators, such as Dean of Women Anna Keaton and Dr. Howard Rye, head of the music department, who showed genuine interest in students.
The conversation covers extracurricular activities, including dormitory events like the annual inter-hall stunt show and Blackfriars performances, as well as music-related activities and sporting events, which were central to campus life. She recalls the assassination of President John F. Kennedy and watching the Cuban Missile Crisis unfold with her classmates in the dormitory lounge.
Otto discusses popular forms of entertainment on campus, including movies and dances, and provides insights into the towns of Bloomington and Normal. She emphasizes the strict penalties for possession of alcohol on campus. She fondly recalls her experiences with the marching band, the excitement of Homecoming events, and the unique tradition of the “Mr. MIG” (Most Ideal Guy) contests.
Interview Date
10-29-1983
Index
- Introduction: 00:00-00:40
- Dormitory life and curfews: 00:40-04:03
- University growth and President Bone: 04:03-05:24
- Notable administrators and faculty: 05:24-07:07
- Comparative difficulty of completing a college education: 07:07-07:57
- Extracurricular activities; dormitory stunt shows: 07:57-11:14
- Prices for common goods; tuition costs: 11:14-13:32
- Typical mode of dress: 13:32-14:53
- National news: 15:02-16:16
- Entertainment and socializing: 16:16-17:45
- Bloomington-Normal: 17:45-18:33
- Alcohol and tobacco use: 18:33-19:42
- Favorite aspects of ISNU: 19:42-20:22
- Women’s marching band: 20:22-21:24
- Panty raid incident: 21:24-22:45
- Graduations on the quad: 22:45-23:06
- Newly constructed buildings on campus: 23:06-24:19
- Homecoming Courts; Mr. MIG contest: 24:19-25:28
Recommended Citation
Otto, Bette Jane, "Interview with Bette Jane Otto, Class of 1963" (1963). Alumni Oral Histories. 27.
https://ir.library.illinoisstate.edu/aoh/27