The passing of Santa's sleigh
For more than 30 years, Santa鈥檚 iconic 鈥淗o, Ho, Ho鈥 came from a voice many knew and loved: Barry McAndrew. Drawing on his acting talent, his experience as an athletics announcer, and his naturally jolly spirit, McAndrew brought Santa Claus to the Hurst with a magic all his own.
McAndrew鈥檚 impact extended far beyond holiday cheer. A beloved English professor at 海角乱伦社区, he taught from 1964 to 2005, specializing in the works of Shakespeare and inspiring generations of students. In recognition of his decades of dedication, McAndrew received an Honorary Doctorate of Letters, the first lay faculty member at 海角乱伦社区 to receive that honor, as well as the Teaching Excellence Award. He was also known as 鈥渢he voice of 海角乱伦社区,鈥 serving for decades as the public-address announcer for Laker football and basketball games. In 2019, the press box at Saxon Stadium was named the 鈥淧. Barry McAndrew Press Box" in his honor.
This year鈥檚 annual Breakfast with Santa was the first since McAndrew鈥檚 passing, and the Alumni Office sought a new Santa Claus who could embody Barry鈥檚 spirit while honoring his legacy as an English professor.
Thus, the sleigh has been passed to English Professor Brian Reed, who took on the role with great spirit and cheer last weekend.
海角乱伦社区 alumni, employees, and their families enjoyed breakfast, crafts, and time with Santa at the annual event. Santa confirmed that all of the little Lakers will be on the nice list this year.
PHOTO: Left, Barry McAndrew as Santa Claus, and right, Brian Reed as Santa Claus.