 |
By Jessica N. Roberts
A history of Washington University would not be complete without including Jim Burmeister.
Burmeister, executive director of University relations, has been a part of the University for more than 47 years, making an indelible mark on the school community through his work with faculty, staff, alumni and students.
At 14, he began his career at the University as a part-time employee for the psychology department, scoring tests for prospective students and incoming freshman and printing test reports.
Four years later, Burmeister started as an undergraduate, immersing himself in campus life. Though the University was still a "streetcar" campus at that point, Burmeister lived in the house of his fraternity, Tau Kappa Epsilon, enjoying the full campus experience while working toward a political science degree.
"When I was an undergraduate, 80 percent of the students were from the St. Louis area," Burmeister said. "Though there was nearly the same number of students then as there are now, there wasn't a South 40, just the dormitories on the main campus and fraternity houses."
Graduate school was Burmeister's next step. He earned an MBA from the University in 1963 and went on to earn a master's in psychology in 1967. While working toward his psychology degree, Burmeister worked in University City public schools on a Ford Foundation grant.
Burmeister then spent seven years as University registrar. He then moved on to become director of alumni programs, working with the Council Cities to create and implement programs to keep former students linked to the University.
During this time, Burmeister also worked closely with the Office of Undergraduate Admissions to help attract students from around the country and expand the reputation of the school.
 At his home in Wisconsin, Burmeister (center) enjoys a summer day with his mother, Ella, and friend James N. McKelvey, Ph.D., senior professor of engineering. |
In 1988, he joined the Office of Public Affairs, where he continues to serve as everything from business manager, editor, expert on University history, director of Commencement and executive director of University relations, to the authority on giving campus tours.
"Jim is one of the most effective advocates Washington University has," said M. Fredric Volkmann, vice chancellor of public affairs. "His long association here makes him the reigning guru on everything from anecdotal history to how to give the best campus tour anywhere in higher education. I consider it a great privilege to work with him."
Burmeister has enjoyed his time as both a student and employee at the University.
"I've never given any thought to going anyplace else," Burmeister said. "All of my years here have been great."
"We've always been blessed with an extremely bright student body that is interested in the community around them," Burmeister said. "Parents and prospective students recognize this when they visit the campus. They also perceive what a supportive and caring community the administrators, students and staff create for each other at Washington University."
The University's annual student-run Thurtene Carnival has benefited from the guidance of Burmeister, who has served as adviser to the Thurtene Honorary (which organizes the event) since 1970. As a tribute to his dedication, the honorary named the award for the carnival's overall winner for skit and faŤade production the Burmeister Cup in 1977.
"I'm always amazed by what the students put together each year," he said. "It's nice to see the hard work and dedication that goes into the event."
Students also benefit from Burmeister's expertise as they prepare to leave campus. Each year, Burmeister directs the University's Commencement, coordinating the general logistics of the entire event to create a seamless program for the graduating students and their families.
Where Burmeister is most visible on campus, though, may be in the stands of the University's athletic fields and courts. Every year, his total support of the athletes can be seen at numerous home (and sometimes away) games, loudly cheering the Bears on to victory.
"I really believe in Division III sports," he said.
Burmeister also serves on the alumni board for his fraternity and on the board of Campus Y. In addition, he is once again assisting the undergraduate admissions office with programs to help draw superior students to the school.
"Jim Burmeister is literally a walking history book about Washington University," Chancellor Mark S. Wrighton said. "He has a phenomenal understanding of this campus and its people. A great person in every respect, Jim is an advocate for students and their interests. He is a lively contributor to efforts such as Thurtene Carnival and one of the best fans of Washington University athletics --certainly one of the loudest cheerleaders!
"Commencement, our most important academic event each year, has been enhanced as a consequence of Jim's involvement. Jim is a man of considerable energy, commitment and enthusiasm for Washington University. He is a great colleague in every way."
"After I purchased the cabin, I drew up plans to convert it into a small vacation home," he said. "As I was working outside on the house, my neighbor told me that it used to be the old post office for the island. At that point, I scrapped my original plans and decided to restore the cabin to how it once was."
Burmeister now spends a month each year at the lake home, making minor repairs and working on various building projects. He also enjoys woodworking and gardening.
The University has a valuable asset in Burmeister, and his enthusiasm for the school has not diminished over the 47 years he's been here.
"It sure doesn't seem that long," Burmeister said. "The students, administration and faculty at the University are wonderful, and I continue to be happy about being a part of this community."
William H. Danforth, chancellor emeritus and vice chairman of the Board of
Trustees, said, "It is a privilege and a pleasure to know Jim Burmeister. His
commitment and enthusiasm are contagious. Whether cheering for a team, or working
with Thurtene, or guiding alumni or working with us --his colleagues --Jim embodies
the spirit of Washington University."
| Front Page |
Medical News |
Calendar | Notables | Campus Watch |
| Sports | Email Us! |
Record Staff |
Hilltop Jobs Medical Jobs |
WU Home Page |