Oral Histories

David Powers Corwin click here

Dr. David Corwin, an associate professor in the School of Integrative Studies, serves Mason through many faceted courses that they teach. Their courses range from a variety of topics, including but not limited to courses in Women and Gender Studies, the English Composition program, Honors College, gender and sexuality in popular culture, and most relevant, LGBTQ+ studies. 

As they began teaching at Mason in 2013, Dr. David Corwin led significant efforts in the development of the minor in LGBTQ+ studies. Their key collaboration in the Women and Gender Studies aided the visibility of LGBTQ+ community, as well as advocating for increased development in that area. 

Ric Chollar click here

Ric Chollar, an adjunct professor, played an important role in shaping the LGBTQ+ community at Mason. He began teaching in 1987 in the Psychology Department. In the late 1990s, Ric became involved in an LBGTQ+ counseling group as a facilitator and soon became a consultant of what became the Safe Zone program. He continued to work with these programs throughout the years as LGBTQ+ visibility increased. From 2002 to 2017, Ric served as a staff member for the student organization that became the LGBTQ+ Resources Center.  

In this interview, Ric discusses his past experiences about his involvement with the Safe Zone program, Pride Alliance, LGBTQ+ Resources Center, and many other pieces of remembrance.  

Lindsay Lowry click here

Lindsay Lowry was one of Mason's Spring 2024 Outstanding Graduating Students. He received a degree in Integrative Studies in Women and Gender Studies, with a minor in American Sign Language. Lindsay worked closely under Dr. David Powers Corwin, as both a student and a teaching assistant. They were involved with Mason's Speech and Debate team which they remeber fondly, and as a safe place to express themself. Lindsay speaks in this oral history about his experiences with Dr. David, his time under the Women and Gender Studies major and Resource staff, and also comments on other experiences with faculty and the Mason community.