Dr. Frederic Lister Burk (1862–1924): Founding president of San Francisco State University

 

Dr. Frederic Burk and SFSU seal

Main Mausoleum

Dr. Frederic Burk was a pioneering educator and educational reformer, best known as the founding president of San Francisco State University (originally the San Francisco State Normal School). Born on September 1, 1862, in Blenheim, Ontario, Canada, he moved to California during his youth and pursued higher education at the University of California, Berkeley (B.L., 1883), Stanford University (M.A., 1892), and Clark University (Ph.D., 1898).​

Before entering academia, Burk worked as a journalist in San Francisco from 1883 to 1889. He then transitioned into education, serving as superintendent of public schools in Santa Rosa (1892–1896) and Santa Barbara (1897–1899). In 1899, he was appointed the first president of the San Francisco State Normal School, a position he held until his death in 1924.​

Burk was an advocate for individualized instruction, opposing the traditional "lockstep" system of education. He believed that allowing students to progress at their own pace would enhance learning and efficiency. This philosophy influenced educational practices both in the United States and abroad.​

Burk Hall at SFSU

 

Burk's contributions to education were significant. He was a member of the California State Board of Education and served as president of the California State Teachers Association. His work laid the foundation for modern educational methods that emphasize personalized learning. In recognition of his impact, Burk Hall at San Francisco State University is named in his honor.​

Dr. Burk passed away on June 12, 1924, in Oakland, California, and is interred with his equally famous son, Dr. Dean Burk (profiled in following bio).