Mary Boothroyd ‘68
My experience at Long Beach State (yes, even in the sixties, we called it Long Beach) was wonderful! I grew as a student and as a person. The campus and the student body were small and close knit. Almost all the buildings were at the top of the hill and the parking was at the bottom. I recall many “hikes” to LA1-LA5. I wouldn’t change a thing.
I was involved in many activities and organizations. Being a member and an officer of Delta Delta Delta Sorority gave me a great friend base. I belonged to the service club Sinwalk, Shell and Oar Crew Auxiliary, and Cap and Gown (which became Motor Board National College Senior Honor Society). In AWS, I was an officer and in 1966 was auctioned off as a politically incorrect AWS Slave. I had to provide lunch for my “purchaser”. Years later, my husband and I were at a LBSU function and a man came up to me and said, “I bought you in college!" It was a fun fundraiser. I was a member of the Rallies Commission, Homecoming Commission, and Project Tutor. I had the privilege of being a song/cheer girl for two years and was a member of the Argonauts Pep Club.
I was privileged enough to receive some honors…Sigma Pi Fraternity Princess, Lotta Crabtree for 49er Days, and Head and Outstanding Song Girl. I received the schools Gold Nugget award twice and the schools Outstanding Service Award. I was also on the Deans and Presidents lists.
My fondest memories were of the awesome 49er Days towns and activities and being able to be a big part of it as Lotta Crabtree.
I attended all football and basketball games, rallies, and many plays and concerts. Being active in so many different activities as well, kept me very busy. My favorites were the basketball games in the old gym now called the Gold Mine. They were packed, loud, hot, and fun!!!
I probably spent most of my “hang out” time in the library! When I wasn’t studying, I would go to the cafeteria where every “group” had its own table. Here I would connect with my friends.
Dr. Buck was my Oral Interpretation instructor. He was a caring, interesting, helpful, guiding teacher. I only missed ONE class in my years at LBSU and it was one of Dr. Buck’s classes. Unfortunately, I saw him later that day. All he said was “I missed you today”. It’s a memory I won’t forget.
I earned my BA and my teaching credential from Long Beach. I was given all the necessary life tools to have a very successful career.
After graduation, I got married to Pete Boothroyd. We have three children and six grandchildren. We have been married for 50 years. I also did my student teaching through Long Beach in Garden Grove. I ended up teaching in Garden Grove for 40 years.
Today I am retired. I enjoy my grandchildren, reading, traveling, and playing golf. My husband and I belong to the Alumni Association and the Athlete Department Directors Circle. We still attend many events at LBSU.
