Gifted Communicator Gives Back to Burroughs

William A. Borders in 1989

After joining the JBS Class of 1956 as a sophomore, Bill Borders, who passed away in February, made his mark on the track and soccer fields, as well as onstage as the lead in two musicals. However, it was his time spent on the World and yearbook staffs that foreshadowed what became a 46-year career at The New York Times.

Bill earned a bachelor’s degree in English from Yale University and joined The Times in 1960, starting as a copy boy. He spent his entire professional life there, leaving only for a six-month stint in the Army Reserve. As a foreign correspondent, he covered — among other events — a military coup in Afghanistan, India’s return to democracy and protests in London against nuclear weapons. He later rose to senior editing positions and a top post overseeing The Times’ writing and editing standards. He also acted as a liaison with readers, fielding their questions, complaints and sometimes compliments. He retired in 2006. Throughout his long and distinguished career, Bill never forgot his connection to JBS.

His son, Will Borders, says, “My father loved Burroughs, and I believe he felt it had a considerable role in molding his worldview as he widened his horizons to Yale and beyond.”

Burroughs is grateful that Bill remembered the school with a generous gift through his estate. Plans are on tap to recognize his contributions to journalism and to Burroughs with a plaque in the student publications lab in the new STAR (science, technology & research) building.

We are happy to discuss ways in which you can support JBS through your estate. To begin planning your legacy, please contact Ginger Imster at 314-993-4045, ext. 256 or gimster@jburroughs.org.