Susan Simsic Day Interview

2025.25.2 image of Susan taken on the day of her interview.

2025.25.2 image of Susan taken on the day of her interview.

Name/Title

Susan Simsic Day Interview

Entry/Object ID

2025.25.1

Scope and Content

Oral history interview with Susan Simsic Day. Susan Simsic, a 1961 Lorain High School graduate, shared her family history, including her Slovenian and Italian roots. Her father worked in a coal company and later in construction, while her mother was from a large Italian family. Susan recounted her early life in Lorain, her education at Lorain High School, and her involvement in the Echoes club. She discussed her career at Lorraine National Bank, her time at Miami University, and her law degree from Capital University. Susan also detailed her work as a prosecutor in Columbus, highlighting the impact of gang violence and drug issues on her cases. The interview with Susan Simsic covers her experiences as a prosecutor, including the harsh penalties for crack cocaine in the 70s and 80s, and the effectiveness of diversion programs. She reflects on the disproportionate indictment of black people and the camaraderie among legal professionals. Post-retirement, Susan has enjoyed traveling, particularly a memorable road trip to California. She discusses her admiration for figures like Michelle Obama and Gloria Steinem, and reminisces about the cultural changes and safety of her youth. The conversation also touches on her family history, particularly the unsolved murder of her aunt Eva.

Collection

Lorain High School Class of 1961 A&B Story Project

Acquisition

Accession

2025.25

Source or Donor

Day, Susan Simsic

Acquisition Method

Donation

Oral History Details

Interviewee

Day, Susan Simsic

Interviewer

Molnar, Margaret

Interview Date

Apr 21, 2025