Longtime Equipment Manager, Bill Francis, Announces Retirement

(PITTSBURGH, Pa.) – Carnegie Mellon University equipment manager Bill Francis has announced his retirement after 29 years at the university, effective September 8.

A member of Carnegie Mellon Athletics since 1991, Francis has played a fundamental role in providing outstanding support for the student-athlete experience in the realms of facilities, events, recreation, aquatics, equipment and numerous other support services. Most recently, Francis has served as the equipment manager for football the past 10 seasons. Prior to serving the football program, Francis maintained Carnegie Mellon’s swimming pools and spas.

“Bill Francis has been deeply committed to Carnegie Mellon and our athletics program for nearly 30 years, and he has made a lasting impact on our community,” said Director of Athletics Josh Centor. “Through his contributions, Billy has had an influence on the experience of generations of Tartan student-athletes.”

Francis is a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps and a talented musician. He likes listening to ‘70s music and has played drums, piano and guitar with various bands in numerous venues in Western Pennsylvania, including KeyBank Pavilion in Burgettstown, Pennsylvania's biggest outdoor amphitheater. He also has played at the Allegheny and Westmoreland County Fairs and opened for country music stars George Jones, Vince Gill and Tracy Lawrence.

In his retirement, Bill is looking forward to spending more time with his two son’s Dylan and Donovan, performing music live and watching Tartan Football games from the stands.