Larry Mellichamp oral history interview 2, 2014 June 1
Description
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.
