Memories from Pitt-Bradford's Early Years

Streaking, keeping students from falling out windows on Main Street, and Tullah Hanley were among the topics shared by former and longtime employees of the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford during a panel discussion Wednesday night.

Several members of the audience also participated in the discussion moderated by Kimberly Marcott Weinberg, assistant director of Pitt-Bradford’s marketing and communications department.

Panelist Margaret Bryner was the dean of women from 1970 until 1972 and lived with the student in Emery Hall (now Emery Towers) when it was a dorm. She said one of the hardest parts of her job was keeping the students from hanging out the windows.

Current staff member Jeff Armstrong not only talked about his time working at the university, but for working at the home of then-president Dr. Donald Swarts. He and the other panel members all had kind words to say about Swarts and his wife Mary, who they credited with giving the institution its strong foundation.

Ray McMahon, who was a faculty member at the university in its early years, along with current staff member Dr. Michael Stuckart talked about some of the memorable characters. Current Dean of Students Dr. K. James Evans told a story about the flamboyant – and generous – Tullah Hanley. Suffice to say the story had the word “sexercise” in it.

Evans also talked about other memorable characters – including some students, but said they have all done quite well for themselves. And, he pointed out that some of the activities the university tolerated back then that wouldn’t be tolerated today can be chalked up to a different era and a less litigious society. Ah, but memories will live forever.

You can listen to the discussion by clicking the links below:
Part 1
Part 2
Part 3

Pictured, top, Kimberly Marcott Weinberg, Ray McMahon, Michael Stuckhart, Jeff Armstrong; right, Jim Evans, Margaret Bryner
WESB photos

Tullah Hanley with artist Salvadore Dali
from the Hanley Collection at St. Bonaventure University

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