Southwestern Magazine | Fall 2019

When asked what he believes will be his legacy, Burger gives the response he offered nearly seven years ago to a trustee who asked the same question: “I don’t care if anyone says a word about me or my legacy. But here’s what I want them to say about Southwestern: it has become an institution that is known and is respected for offering a truly transformational intellectual and personal experi- ence that uplifts individuals and m a k e s t h e m better versions of themselves. That’s all that matters.” I n d e e d , a s So u t hwe s t e r n looks to the future, the University will continue to imple- ment its mission of providing “an effective and meaningful intel- lectual experi- ence,” says Secord. Gaunder agrees, assuring that Think. Create. Connect.—to make meaning and make a difference will still define how Southwestern delivers a high-impact education as the institution moves forward. Burger is excited to see how the University “continues to lead through its focus on inspiring indi- viduals to become better versions of themselves, both person- ally and intellectually, and to make humanity better.” As he departs for St. David’s Foundation, community members can rest assured that Burger will remain an ardent advocate of the University. He will, he says, “be just down the road”: the nonprofit is headquartered in Austin, approximately 30 miles south of SU via I-35. There, he’ll be experiencing another “Paideia moment” as he connects what he learned and taught at Southwestern to a foundation that supports the education of those preparing for careers in the medical arts through schol- arships while a l s o h e l p i n g the community through well- ness programs and health initia- tives. “They’re trying to make people better, and I’ve devoted my whole life to that,” he says. “Southwestern and St. David’s are committed to parallel goals, which is very exciting.” He invites everyone to stay in touch by writing him at his Southwestern email address, which he is happily keeping. And in the meantime, he leaves these words of presidential advice: “Always look forward. Always be open to change and evolution, even when it might initially appear to be unsettling. And always continue to grow.” For updates about the search for Southwestern University’s 16th president, visit www.southwestern.edu/presidential-search. Trustee Lynn Parr Mock ' 83 shares, " President Burger ' s vision and passion for higher education combined with his dynamic and thoughtful leadership have resulted in transformative achievement and set Southwestern on a course toward an even more exciting and optimistic future. While I am sad President Burger is leaving, I know he will continue to be an advocate for Southwestern wherever he is. " 24 SOUTHWESTERN