Even though he retired without having won a single game, this coach definitely went out a champion.
Jim Burmeister, executive director of University relations and Commencement, was honored April 21-22 after stepping down following 35 years as adviser to the Thurtene Junior Honorary and Thurtene Carnival.
More than 150 of the 455 students Burmeister has mentored over the years returned to campus — from places such as San Francisco, New York and Seattle — to celebrate the man known simply as “Coach.”
“The most rewarding aspect of doing this for 35 years has been learning so much from the students,” Burmeister said. “They are truly a delight to work with. It makes life worthwhile. They are fun, challenging, exciting and bright. It helps you have a great outlook on life.”
Two student members of Thurtene entered Burmeister’s office in 1971 when he was working as registrar, asking if he’d like to be the group’s adviser.
“I thought it would be fun to do,” Burmeister said, “but of course I never envisioned it would last this long!”
His efforts have not gone unnoticed.
“Jim Burmeister has personified Washington University to generations of students who have been part of Thurtene as well as to all of us who know him,” Chancellor Emeritus William H. Danforth said. “His selfless dedication and enthusiasm for our institution have been an inspiration to me as well as to the students he has mentored so well.”
Burmeister was surprised April 21 with a party in Brookings Hall including more than 150 Thurtene alumni.
On April 22, more than 200 people attended a formal event honoring him for his commitment and officially dedicating “Coach Jim Burmeister Plaza” near the southeast corner of The Village.
Though the late-night carnival-planning meetings, sometimes lasting until 2 a.m., were at times physically taxing, Burmeister said he wouldn’t change a thing.
“Working with these kids is so amazing,” he said. “I’d recommend it to anyone.”
Henry Biggs, Ph.D., assistant dean in Arts & Sciences, took the reins this year as Thurtene adviser.
