Timeline Series 1980s
With our upcoming Centennial in 2010, West Texas A&M University takes a look back at the last 99 years. In the months to come, we’ll bring you snippets of WTAMU history through the accounts of the past and photos throughout the years.
Changing Times
The nation seemed to be moving toward a more conservative stance on many social and economic issues. The fear of nuclear war, the sudden epidemic of AIDS and the ruinous air of economic crisis had Americans in a bit of a slump. Events like Halley’s Comet, the Challenger Space Shuttle tragedy, and baby Jessica McClure defined the era. Iran Contra and the Star Wars Defense became household phrases, and everyone had a copy of Thriller.
At West Texas State University, it was a decade that saw its fair share of controversy.
The Roach Years
Reorganization, no-confidence votes, cost overruns and mistrust were many elements that contributed to the unrest on campus in the 1980s. An underground newspaper published by faculty members gave voice to those troubled by the administration. Actions such as the Ag and Education buildings being “mothballed” and the $450,000 over-budget new President’s home were brought into question. By 1989 enrollment was at a 25-year low with just 5,718 students.
Prime Computer Time
The Computer Center was added to campus in 1985 to accommodate the “new campus computer.” The Prime, which boasted a whopping five gigabytes of storage, had Durwood Henderson, director of computer services dreaming of the future. “We are experimenting with the possibility of being able to someday just dial up the computer from your dorm room and work on the computer without going to the lab.”
Entertaining and Informing
Notable campus visitors and entertainers in the 1980s were Air Supply, George Straight, The Judds and former Secretary of State, national security adviser and Nobel Laureate Henry Kissenger.
Video cassettes, compact discs and acid washed anything were loved by all. New Coke was not loved by anyone.
More Interesting Facts…
Old Main got a facelift, and the Administration Building was renovated and renamed the Jack B. Kelley Student Center.
The College of Business became the T. Boone Pickens College of Business after a gift of $1.5 million.
Lady Buff bowlers won four national championships in the 1980s.
Phases and Crazes-Nintendo, Pac-Man, Rubik’s Cube, Cabbage Patch Kids, Trivial Pursuit, rollerblading, leg warmers and MTV.
On the tube-The Cosby Show, Magnum P.I., St. Elsewhere and L.A. Law
On the big screen-The Empire Strikes Back, E.T. –The Extra-Terrestrial, Raiders of the Lost Ark and Silence of the Lambs
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