Alumni SAGE Society Legacy Oral History Project Charles Schweighauser, professor emeritus at UIS, details his involvement in the creation of the Environmental Studies program at SSU, starting in 1973. He also reminisces about his role in developing the University’s astronomy program, including the construction of observatories located on top of Brookens Library and west of Springfield. Schweighauser relates how he tied the University’s astronomy program to the local community through public events. Schweighauser further discusses the courses he taught as a member of the English department. Individuals prominently mentioned include Dick Sames, Bart Bok (distinguished visiting professor of astronomy at SSU), Dick Williams, Margot Duly, Liz Weir, and former SSU Presidents Durward Long and Alexander Lacy. The interviewer is Cheryl Peck, former UIS Director of Public Relations. See also D2/1/3 Alumni SAGE Society Legacy Oral History Project.

Digital audio file, 72 min., 22 pp. Interview by Cheryl Peck, 2011 OPEN