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Start Over Creator Smith, Janet

Janet Smith interviewed by Susan Dawson

Records the recollections of Janet Smith, a public relations specialist for James Madison University and a JMU alumna from the class of 1981. Recalls her freshman class as the first to attend JMU after its name change from Madison University in 1977. Describes the physical layout of the campus at that time, including the Quad, Newman Lake, and popular student haunts. Remarks on the number of new buildings erected on the campus over the years, as well as the importance of retaining green spaces. Comments on the increase in vehicular traffic at JMU and the hazards it presents to bicyclists and pedestrians. Recalls popular ledgends of ghosts inhabiting the pedestrian tunnels running beneath the Quad. Remarks on the role played by collegiate sports at JMU and mentions several student athletes who went on to play for professional teams. Predicts that JMU will continute to balance the infrastructrual requirements of its expanding student body against the human need for natural and green spaces.

  1. James Madison University
  2. James Madison University: An Environmental History oral histories

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