Tom Snipes, 1993 February 25

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Identifier: GF-SN0187

Staff Only

Tom Snipes oral history interview, 1993 February 25

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Scope and Contents

Tom Snipes describes his early upbringing in Kannapolis and Raleigh, North Carolina in an autocratic, yet loving home run by his disciplinarian father. He recalls the challenges of growing up during the Depression in a large family with meager resources, and the strong role religion played in his life. Mr. Snipes explains that he experienced early hardships in school due to an eye disorder, but he did not let these obstacles deter him from achieving success as a student and ultimately earning a doctoral degree in education. Mr. Snipes describes his efforts as chairman of the department of psychology at Appalachian State University to develop and expand the university's degree programs and improve its reputation throughout the state. He also discusses his views about race relations in the South. Mr. Snipes explains that while he accepts most facets of racial equality, he acknowledges that he still maintains some of his prejudicial beliefs learned early in life, such as his disapproval of interracial marriage.

Dates

Creation: 1993 February 25

Conditions Governing Access

34 of the 392 interviews are available in the digital repository. Original audiovisual materials are closed to patron use.

Biographical Note

Tom Snipes was a 61-year-old man at the time of interview, which took place in his office at Concord First Assembly Church in Concord, North Carolina. He was born in Kannapolis, North Carolina in 1932. He was educated at Catawba College, Oglethorpe University, Mercer University, and the University of Georgia; and was employed as a teacher, a counselor, and a professor of psychology at Appalachian State University.