Gilley, Sylvia (Audio Interview)
Abstract
Description
Sylvia Gilley graduated from Wake Forest University in 1957, majoring in Health & Exercise Science. At the time, athletics for women were not fully supported or funded leading women to participate informally in sports. Nevertheless, women like Gilley persevered, paving the way for future female athletes. She was a member of the White Jackets, an athletic organization for women that served as a female version of the Monogram Club. This celebrate women who excelled athletically. Gilley is a lively interviewee who shares a wealth of information on Wake Forest life, ranging from the separate code of conduct for women to the intense academic demands of succeeding at the University. A memorable story Gilley told involved her receiving a hotdog from Shorty's through her window since women were not allowed at the restaurant in town.