Collington -A Kendal Affiliate, held a ceremony on November 1 to dedicate a nature trail bridge in memory of a remarkable resident, Mike Burke. Known as an author, educator, and environmentalist, Mike was especially creative and caring and consistently built influential connections to protect nature and make the world a better place. The “Burke Bridge”, both figurately and literally, is an exceptionally suited commemoration for this nature enthusiast, environmental advocate and friend to many.
Throughout his career, whether serving as a staff member in the U.S. House and Senate, acting as a government affairs liaison within the Environmental Protection Agency, or engaging in advocacy work, Mike’s approach was rooted in making connections. Even as his health declined, Mike remained active and involved, using an electric scooter to explore National Parks and the halls of Congress, plus leading engaging bird-watching events on the Collington campus trails.
A group of dedicated donors, including resident Liz Barbehenn, Paige Mills-Haag, and construction partner RDI, sought to honor Mike’s legacy. They designed and constructed an elegant white bridge that now arches gracefully over a challenging rocky culvert, connecting trails on Collington’s campus. The 125-acre senior living community has six miles of trails.
The dedication was attended by Pat, Mike’s wife of 47 years, his twin brother Joe, sister Kathy, and close Collington friends, and was a fitting tribute to a man who overcame obstacles and built lasting connections.
Megan Barbour, COO of Collington, shares, “Mike was more than just a resident; he was a tireless advocate for our planet, a passionate leader, and the first chair of Collington’s Resident Association’s Climate Action Committee. He understood the importance of preserving our natural world, not just for ourselves, but for future generations. He had an incredible ability to make everyone feel valued and heard, whether you were a seasoned advocate or someone just beginning to explore the importance of sustainability.”
Ann Gillespie, CEO of Collington added, “The bridge we dedicate today symbolizes connection—between people, between ideas, and between our community and the natural world around us. It is a fitting tribute to Mike, who dedicated so much of his time and energy to fostering connections that would lead to a healthier, more sustainable environment.”
About Mike: Mike retired after thirty-two years of public service. While at EPA Region III, he was selected for the Glenn Witmer Award, which is the highest honor for a regional employee. As a government liaison, he won the individual Gold Medal given by an EPA Administrator for outstanding achievement. He was a highly regarded senior legislative aide for Members of the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate. For seven years, Mike was the author of the popular “On the Wing” monthly column in the Chesapeake Bay Journal. He was a resident of Collington for four years. Mike passed away in October of 2023.
Read Chesapeake Bay Journal Editor Tim Sayle’s beautiful tribute to Mike.