Interview with Karen Armstrong-Cummings, June 24, 1989

Interview Summary

Armstrong-Cummings discusses the need for more environmental education in Kentucky and how the state can address these needs. She reflects on long term trends and changes in Kentucky state government that reflect more of a focus on environmental protections and planning. Armstrong-Cummings discusses the importance of citizens and grassroots groups, and their impact on the legislative agenda in Kentucky. She offers advice on being successful through interdisciplinary learning, a practical application of skills, communication skills, and developing a community of support. She discusses the gendered aspects of environmental activism in an attempt to balance family and activism.

Armstrong-Cummings discusses the source of her environmental commitment and her interest in environmental protection beginning in her childhood on a farm in North Carolina in a close-knit community that revolved around church and farming. She discusses the importance of Mars Hill College in her development as an environmental activist.

Interview Keyword

Mars Hill College Mars Hill University Gender issues Family farms Childhood Curriculum planning Teachers--Kentucky

Interview LC Subject

Armstrong-Cummings, Karen Armstrong-Cummings, Karen--Interviews Conservation of natural resources Environmental protection Environmental protection--Kentucky Environmentalism Natural areas Education--Kentucky Environmental education

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.