WALTER BURKE

BURKE--Walter.

The President and Trustees of Columbia University express deep sadness at the passing of Walter Burke, Esq., Trustee emeritus and beloved alumnus. Walter was a generous and loyal friend who leaves an indelible mark on his alma mater. A 1948 graduate of Columbia Law School, Walter was a member of the University's Board of Trustees from 1990-94. Following his graduation from law school, he served as chief legal and financial advisor to inventor and businessman Sherman Fairchild and encouraged him to establish the Sherman Fairchild Foundation. The Foundation has since become an important benefactor of the University, establishing the Sherman Fairchild Center for the Life Sciences and the Sherman Fairchild Imaging Floor in Columbia's Northwest Corner Building. It also has provided significant support for the Audubon Business and Technology Center at Columbia University Irving Medical Center as well as undergraduate financial aid. Walter served on the Foundation's board for more than 50 years, including 35 years as president. We also celebrate Walter's philanthropic impact outside Columbia, including his service as a trustee at the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Morgan Library & Museum, and as Chairman of the Board of Directors at Union Theological Seminary, whose library bears his name. We offer our condolences to Walter's beloved wife of 76 years, Constance, his children and extended family, and all who feel his loss. May his memory be an inspiration to us all.