COM mourns passing of colleague Jim Thistle

Boston University's College of Communication is incredibly saddened by the passing of our dear colleague Professor Jim Thistle. Jim represented all that was good in journalism education and the news industry. He was a great teacher and mentor to his students during his nearly three decades as a Professor teaching broadcast journalism.

Jim was legendary in his commitment to his students and the profession. He was always available at any time to advise students and graduates, guiding them as they progressed in their careers. Even as he struggled with his illness, he continued to be a mentor, answering emails and making phone calls.

At the College, he brought his years of experience as a news executive into the classroom standing as a symbol of the best values and standards of journalism. He was chair of the journalism department, and his calm steady voice provided leadership during his years at Boston University.

Jim will be greatly missed by his students, colleagues and the many alumni inspired by his love of teaching and the craft of journalism.

A special scholarship has been set up at the College of Communication in honor of Jim Thistle and his long time colleague at WCVB-TV, Natalie Jacobson. The scholarship is awarded to students pursuing careers in broadcast journalism.

Donations can be made to the following:

Jacobson/Thistle Scholarship Fund
Boston University College of Communication
640 Commonwealth Ave.
Boston, MA 02215

To make a donation online, select Jacobson/Thistle Scholarship  Fund from the pull-down menu under Gift Designation.

Visit COM's Tribute to Jim Thistle.