Tilden (Gerald) (’56) and Barbara Cohen (’59) Halpern

Go Back

To begin with, although I was a good high school student, I never wanted to attend college. I told my parents that I was going to marry a rich man, and college was not in my plans. However, my parents insisted I continue my education.

I couldn’t believe it, but after only three weeks in school I met the man of my dreams. I had volunteered to work (I was a good typist) in the Intramural Board office. They ran the intramural sports at Baruch, and they needed extra help to publish the weekly newsletter.

What attracted me to him? You would never believe it, but he wore gorgeous penny loafers with actual pennies inserted in the slot!! Another positive about Tilden (as he was and is still called) is he was president of the Intramural Board and on the boxing team (a real jock). He was also a senior and graduating in one year. That was a big plus for me.

After about a year of dating we got serious, and he proposed to me. I was 18 at the time and in those days, we asked for our parents’ permission to marry. I dutifully asked and their response was a resounding NO. Why? I had only one year of college under my belt, and I had to graduate. We waited three more years and then we tied the knot.

I will tell you that Tilden was not rich when we married, but we are grateful for the many, many opportunities Baruch has given us. I graduated and subsequently got my master’s degree. I began teaching at Nassau Community College and recently retired as a full professor. Tilden remained in the business world and was employed as a business manager in a large aerospace company on Long Island. We have two lovely children, are living a comfortable life, and are thankful we found each other at young ages so we are able to grow old together. After 47 years of marriage, life is still fun; and we are looking forward to many more years of the good life.