Larry Mellichamp [2], 2014 June 19

File

Identifier: OH-UA-ME0106

Staff Only

Larry Mellichamp oral history interview 2, 2014 June 19

Scope and Contents

In this second of two interviews, Dr. Larry Mellichamp, long-time faculty member at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, continues to share about his experience managing the university’s botanical gardens and describes his relationship with Bonnie Cone. He recalls her love of gardening and interest in the gardens on campus, comments on her relationships with donors such as the McMillans, recounts some of her common sayings and the lessons he learned from them, and describes her empathy, thoughtfulness, positivity, and advocacy for students as well as her home and behavioral quirks. He explains the attitude of some in the university administration toward Ms. Cone and the gardens, briefly comments on general feelings regarding her not being given the chancellorship, discusses the circumstances surrounding her burial on campus, and reflects on her legacy and how best to remember her. Dr. Mellichamp also describes Dr. Herbert Hechenbleikner, comparing and contrasting him with Bonnie Cone.

Dates

2014 June 19

Creator

Mellichamp, T. Lawrence (Thomas Lawrence) (Person)

Language of Materials

From the Collection: The material is in English

Conditions Governing Access

Original audiovisual materials are closed to patron use. Please contact Special Collections to request the creation of use copies for particular items; requests will be accommodated when possible. The remaining materials are open for research.

Biographical / Historical

Dr. Mellichamp was a 65-year-old man at the time of interview, which took place in the greenhouse on the campus of UNC Charlotte. He was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania in 1948 and was educated at UNC Charlotte, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Botany (1970), and at the University of Michigan, where he earned his PhD in Botany (1976). He was employed as a professor of botany and horticulture at UNC Charlotte and as director of the university’s botanical gardens.