Harry Nelson Living Memoirs Interview
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Document Type
Oral History: 1960-1969
Publication Date
Summer 5-13-2025
Abstract
Harry, a Southern alumnus, shared his experiences as a student missionary and how they influenced his personal growth and professional journey. He reflected on his time serving overseas in the late 1960s, teaching and participating in outreach efforts that introduced him to new cultures and ways of life. These early experiences contributed to his long-term interest in service and health care. After college, Harry pursued a medical career with a focus on women’s health, eventually spending several years practicing abroad before returning to the U.S. He spoke about the role of faith in his life and work, his interest in mental and preventative health, and the value of supporting mission work in a variety of ways.
*Content Warning: This interview includes references to graphic medical conditions, historical violence, and traumatic childbirth experiences. Listener discretion is advised.
Borneo, the third-largest island in the world, is located in Southeast Asia and is politically divided among Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei. Known for its diverse ecosystems, Borneo features tropical rainforests, rugged mountains, and rich biodiversity, including endangered species like the orangutan. The island is home to a mix of ethnic groups and traditional communities, many of whom maintain indigenous cultural practices. Religious life in Borneo is varied, with Islam, Christianity, and indigenous animist beliefs all represented, reflecting the island's cultural and national diversity.
The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica (2025, May 7). Borneo. Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/place/Borneo-island-Pacific-Ocean
Recommended Citation
Nelson, Harry, "Harry Nelson Living Memoirs Interview" (2025). Student Missionary Stories. 48.
https://knowledge.e.southern.edu/studentmissionarystories/48