The passing of Santa's sleigh

For more than 30 years, Santa’s iconic “Ho, Ho, Ho” 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’s impact extended far beyond holiday cheer. A beloved English professor at Mercyhurst, 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 Mercyhurst to receive that honor, as well as the Teaching Excellence Award. He was also known as “the voice of Mercyhurst,” 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 “P. Barry McAndrew Press Box" in his honor.

This year’s annual Breakfast with Santa was the first since McAndrew’s passing, and the Alumni Office sought a new Santa Claus who could embody Barry’s 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.

Mercyhurst 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.