Interview with Otis A. Singletary, December 1, 1988

Interview Summary

In this interview, Dr. Singletary discusses the "honeymoon period" both in his administration and that of his successor. He addresses the value that Kentucky puts on education (specifically higher education). He argues that a state should focus on promoting one university as a high quality institution, and talks about how regionalism in Kentucky has broken down that type of system. Kentucky State University and its relationship with the University of Kentucky are discussed. Dr. Singletary also talks about the U.K. Board of Trustees at length, as well as support from Kentucky governors Bert T. Combs, Edward T. Breathitt, Louie B. Nunn, and Wendell H. Ford.

Dr. Singletary addresses two very controversial issues that he confronted in 1972. During the commencement address in May, he openly called for an end to the Vietnam War which drew much criticism, but he states that the most heated debate at this time was over the recognition of the Gay Liberation Organization on campus. He discusses his first reactions as well as the development of the case as it went to trial.

Interview LC Subject

Singletary, Otis A., 1921-2003 Singletary, Otis A., 1921-2003--Interviews

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.