Flashback: Warren M. ‘Andy’ Anderson ’37

Autumn 2020
William Sauro/The New York Times/Redux

Oct. 16, 1915–June 1, 2007

He lifted New York City out of financial crisis and championed the education system, all while wearing his signature eccentric plaid sports coats. Warren M. “Andy” Anderson ’37 spent 36 years in the New York State Senate — a historically unparalleled leadership term.

Anderson attended Albany Law School after graduating from Colgate, where he had studied economics and written for the Maroon. In 1965, he returned to his alma mater as the Board of Trustees chairman, participating in the planning of a coeducational campus. 

During World War II, Anderson served in the U.S. Army, achieving the position of second lieutenant in the Judge Advocate General’s Corps. Following the war, he became Assistant County Attorney for Broome County before joining Binghamton law firm Hinman, Howard & Kattell. He quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a partner in 1952 (and maintaining the title until his death).

Anderson’s election to the New York State Senate in 1953 marked the beginning of his triumphant tenure. In a postelection editorial, the New York Times described him as a “thoroughly competent, sympathetic, and responsible lawmaker.” 

A staunch advocate for quality instruction, Anderson devoted much of his time to strengthening educational institutions and endeavors. As chairman of Colgate’s Board of Trustees, he pushed for coeducation (see more in the article “First Class“). He also supported the SUNY school system and piloted the creation of the Tuition Assistance Program — the legislation supplying financial aid to qualifying New York State residents pursuing higher education. 

The majority leader for 16 years, Anderson worked with six different governors. He was known as a key member of the efforts to save New York City from the fiscal crisis that brought it to the brink of bankruptcy in 1975. As well as restoring fiscal stability, he also increased state aid to the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, a move that culminated in great advancements and enhancements in subway service for decades to come. 

“Trim, gray-haired, invariably well tailored, except for the last day of the legislative session when he dons a garish plaid, Senator Anderson does not practice the back-slapping brand of politics,” the New York Times penned in 1975. “He is soft-spoken and polite even in combat.”

Anderson retired from the Senate in 1988, but remained active in numerous state and local organizations, including the State Commission on Judicial Nominations. He took pride in being a part of the Sons of the American Revolution and the American Legion. He was also a member of Colgate’s Presidents’ Club and Maroon Council.

Anderson imparted a lasting legacy when he passed away in 2007. New York Senate majority leader Joseph Bruno extolled Anderson’s tenacity and enthusiasm. “The people of New York have lost a tremendous, dedicated public servant and a true and caring friend,” he noted in a Senate statement. “Warren Anderson led our state during very challenging times. He was a strong advocate for tax relief, increased government accountability, and greater state investment in schools. He never lost [his] warm, small-town touch.”

This small-town charm imbued Anderson’s accomplishments, cementing his place not only as a successful lawmaker, but also as a friend of the people.