Remembering the man who created Zippy

From boyhood, Richard L. Hansford was never far from The University of Akron campus, first as a student at nearby Spicer Elementary and Central High schools, and then as a UA student himself. His career began here in 1949, soon after Hansford graduated with a B.A.ED., earned "with distinction." He worked in a variety of administrative roles, retiring as vice president and dean of student services emeritus. 

On Dec. 29, Hansford passed away at age 95.

The native of West Virginia began classes at UA in January 1941. Like so many of his generation, he interrupted his education for military service during World War II. He served for four years in the U.S. Army.

Hansford, who earned an M.A.ED. here in 1954, retired in 1985. He continued to work at UA for various periods until 1990. During his decades of service, he is credited with many contributions. Most notably, Hansford authored the proposal in 1974 to create the Honors Program, now the Honors College.

Seeking a unique mascot

He also is responsible for bringing school mascot, Zippy, to life.

When a student committee was formed in 1952 to select a mascot, Hansford, then an adviser to male students, was asked for ideas. He recalled a popular cartoon character, Kicky, and suggested they consider a kangaroo.

''I really thought the mascot needed to be something unique -- there were so many bulldogs, lions, tigers and whatnots out there already,'' Hansford told the Akron Beacon Journal in a 2011 interview. ''And it had to be something that was aggressive."

The students agreed.

Services were held Tuesday, Jan. 6. A feature story, as well as a full obituary, are available on the Akron Beacon Journal website.

Richard L. Hansford