Interview with Thomas D. Clark, October 21, 2004

Interview Summary

Thomas D. Clark gives an overview of University of Kentucky President Frank McVey's life, including his education and various jobs, as well as personal characteristics. McVey's personal life is discussed, including his marriages, family, and other relationships. Clark goes into detail on some of the changes McVey made or attempted to make at the University of Kentucky, including fighting for the ability to teach evolution, trying to create a better library, and improving the faculty. Clark describes his personal relationship with McVey and how he worked with him as a history instructor. Clark mentions some controversies McVey was involved in, as well as his lack of a desire to be involved in Kentucky politics. Clark also describes his personal experience at Duke University. Clark discusses racism and segregation of African Americans.

Interview Keyword

Dr. Frank McVey Dr. James Patterson Frances Jewell McVey Evolution Dr. Herman Donovan Interpersonal relations James H. Graham Lifestyles Retirement Athletics Death Judge Samuel Mackay Wilson Duke University Johnson v. Board of Trustees of University of Kentucky Day Law

Interview LC Subject

Clark, Thomas Dionysius, 1903-2005 Clark, Thomas Dionysius, 1903-2005--Interviews University of Kentucky University of Kentucky--History McVey, Frank LeRond, 1869-1953 Academic libraries Families College presidents History College teachers Universities and colleges--Faculty Medical colleges African Americans--Segregation Building College campuses

Interview Rights

All rights to the interviews, including but not restricted to legal title, copyrights and literary property rights, have been transferred to the University of Kentucky Libraries.

Interview Usage

Interviews may be reproduced with permission from Louie B. Nunn Center for Oral History, Special Collections, University of Kentucky Libraries.