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Tom Burke '81 was proved to be one of the most talented and versatile athletes to have attended Connecticut College. Burke competed in soccer, squash and lacrosse. 

On the lacrosse field, Burke was a leader and team captain of Coach Fran Shields’ first team in 1981. A four-year starter on attack, Burke graduated as the program’s scoring leader in all three major offensive categories with 78 goals, 84 assists and 162 points. He set the single-season program record for assists (30) and points (57).

In his senior year, Burke’s squad posted a record of 7-3, earning the program’s first wins against rivals Amherst and Wesleyan.Burke was known as one of the fast, well-conditioned Camels, who inspired others with his unselfish style of play and tireless work ethic.

Burke was relentless in loose balls situations and battles for groundballs and had greater poise with the ball. He was the leader on offense that would settle things down and according to Shields was the player that always made the right pass. In short, Burke was just a great leader and unselfish player. 

He was honored as his team’s MVP and with the Ball Hawk Award in 1981. At the conclusion of his senior year, Burke was invited to play in the New England Intercollegiate Lacrosse Association East West Senior All-Star Game, the first Camel to earn this prestigious honor. Burke;s teams posted a record of 28-12 (.700) during his four years of competition in lacrosse.

Shields named a Coach’s Award after Burke, a testament to his commitment and dedication both on and off the field.

Burke and his classmates started the squash program in his sophomore year, competing on the school’s only court in the College Center at Crozier Williams.

On the soccer field, Burke was a four year starter, playing both forward and the midfield positions for the Camels. In his junior year on the pitch in 1979, the Camels advanced to the Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC) Finals. Burke was recognized as the team’s most improved player. The Camels posted a record of 40-18-5 (.655) over the course of his career.

Burke has been a dedicated contributor to his community's youth athletic programs. He has volunteered his time as a soccer and lacrosse coach.

He currently resides in Darien, Connecticut with his wife Caroline. The couple has three daughters: Emily, Caitlin and Liza.