Genasci, James and Jean (MS 540)

Finding Aid | Digital Documents

Dr. James Genasci was born in 1928. He attended Springfield College, receiving his Bachelor of Science in 1950 and a Master of Science in 1955. He got a Doctor of Education from the University of Northern Colorado in 1960. He was an Associate Professor of Physical Education and eventual Assistant Director of the Division of Graduate Studies at Springfield College from 1963 to 1994. Dr. Genasci was also an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, co-founding the Pioneer Valley Chapter of PFLAG, Inc. (Parents & Friends of Lesbians and Gays) with his wife, Jean, in 1986. Jean M. B. Genasci was born in 1929. She earned her Baccalaureate degree from Springfield College in 1955 and a Master’s degree from the University of Northern Colorado in 1963. Jean was a librarian in the Springfield Public Schools.

The collection contains correspondence, printed materials, manuscripts, news articles, slides, photographs, scrapbooks, memorabilia, and audio tapes created and/or collected by James and/or Jean Genasci. Important materials include documents on Dr. Thomas Waddell and the Gay Games (II & III). There are also materials on the pursuit of equality for Gays at Springfield College from 1987-1994 as well as talks and seminars on Sport and Physical Education, with additional seminars and lectures on Homophobia and Oppression within these fields.