The University of Rochester’s Intercultural Center has been named to honor alumnus, dean, and University leader Paul J. Burgett. Earlier this month, the University’s Board of Trustees paid tribute to Burgett ’68E, ’72E (MA), ’76E (PhD), by naming the center for him on the occasion of his 50th year at the University.
“The naming of the Intercultural Center is a fitting way to honor Paul’s extraordinary and lasting impact on the University community,” said University President Joel Seligman. “For over a half-century, Paul has been a member of the University of Rochester family where he has been outstanding as a teacher, performer, administrator, and valued advisor.”
Burgett came to the University’s Eastman School of Music as a freshman in 1964. He earned his bachelor’s degree in 1968, his master’s degree in music education and violin in 1972, and his doctoral degree in music education in 1976.
Since that time, he has fulfilled numerous high profile roles, including vice president and general secretary of the Board of Trustees (2001-2011), vice president and University dean of students (1988-2001), Eastman School dean of students (1981-1988), and executive director of the Hochstein Memorial Music School (1970-1972). He is currently vice president, senior advisor to the president, and University dean.
“Paul brings an exceptional understanding of intercultural relationships, given his deep engagement since 1964 with University students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community leaders from every possible background,” said Edmund A. Hajim ’58, chairman of the University’s Board of Trustees. “The Board is delighted to recognize Paul’s important contributions in this way. Paul’s name will bring honor to the important work of the Intercultural Center.”
The University’s Intercultural Center was created to promote cultural awareness and engagement, foster understanding about culture and diversity, and provide opportunities for collaboration and cross-cultural programming among faculty, staff, and students. The center is designed to offer a welcoming location for the campus community to engage in constructive dialogue around difficult topics at the intersections of diversity and identity.
The center also helps students to become aware of similarities and differences among groups. They are encouraged to learn how to work and learn with those from other cultures within and beyond our national borders, regardless of socioeconomic status, political belief, racial and ethnic background, sexual orientation, gender identity, ability, and religious affiliation.
Burgett has helped shape the course of the University, particularly its student affairs. From planning the Eastman Student Living Center to improving programs at the Interfaith Chapel, Wilson Commons, University Health Service, Counseling and Mental Health Services, Residential Life, and Athletics and Recreation, he has been at the forefront of enhancing student life.
He has also been an advocate for justice and equity for those throughout the community by serving on the boards of directors for local organizations including the Hillside Family of Agencies, the YMCA, the Urban League, and the Mount Hope Family Center Advisory Board.
“For decades, students have come to know Dean Burgett as a trusted mentor and counselor,” said Richard Feldman, dean of the College. “He has guided generations of students through the University into meaningful lives as engaged citizens of the world. There is truly no more fitting name for our Intercultural Center to bear than that of Paul Burgett.”
