The College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University are mourning the loss of Warren ‘Boz’ Bostrom, a distinguished professor of accounting and finance. Bostrom, a Saint John's alumnus from the class of 1995, passed away following a period of illness. He was a prominent figure on campus for over two decades, known for his dedication to students and unwavering support for the institutions.
Key Takeaways
- Warren 'Boz' Bostrom, a professor at CSB and SJU for 21 years, has passed away.
- An SJU alumnus, Bostrom was a former Johnnie football player who earned Academic All-American honors in 1994.
- Before joining the faculty in 2004, he worked for nine years in Big 4 accounting, specializing in international tax.
- Bostrom was a beloved mentor, a passionate advocate for the schools, and the author of three books.
- He continued to teach his classes in recent weeks despite his ongoing health challenges.
A Deep Connection to the University
The communities of the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University are remembering Warren Bostrom not just as an educator, but as a central figure in campus life. His passing has been met with an outpouring of condolences, reflecting his significant impact on generations of students, faculty, and alumni.
Bostrom's journey with Saint John's University began long before he joined the faculty. He was a student there, graduating in 1995. His time as a student was marked by both academic and athletic success, laying the foundation for a lifelong commitment to the institution.
From Student-Athlete to Esteemed Professor
During his undergraduate years, Bostrom was a lineman for the renowned Johnnie football team. His performance on the field was matched by his excellence in the classroom. In his senior season in 1994, he achieved national recognition by being named an Academic All-American, an honor reserved for students who excel in both athletics and academics.
A Career in Global Finance
After graduating, Bostrom entered the corporate world, spending nine years in what is known as "Big 4" accounting. This term refers to the four largest professional services networks in the world. During this time, he specialized in complex areas of international tax and finance, gaining valuable real-world experience that he would later bring back to the classroom.
In 2004, Bostrom made the decision to return to his alma mater, this time as a member of the faculty. He joined the accounting and finance department, bringing a wealth of practical knowledge to his teaching. His academic career progressed steadily; he was granted tenure in 2011 and was promoted to the rank of full professor in 2020.
Warren Bostrom dedicated 21 years of his professional life to teaching and mentoring students at the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University.
More Than a Professor: A Mentor and Advocate
Over his two decades as an educator, Bostrom became known for his deep commitment to his students. Many former students remember him not just as a professor who taught them accounting principles, but as a mentor and friend who offered guidance on careers and life.
He was known for developing strong personal bonds, taking an active interest in the success and well-being of those he taught. This approach made his classes highly sought after and left a lasting impression on countless graduates.
"He developed strong bonds with the students he taught, serving not just as a professor – but as a mentor and a friend."
Bostrom was also one of the most visible and passionate promoters of the two schools. He leveraged a significant social media presence to tirelessly advocate for CSB and SJU, sharing news, celebrating achievements, and fostering a sense of community online. He was a constant presence at campus events, from academic lectures to art exhibits, and was an especially avid supporter of Bennie and Johnnie athletics.
A Voice in the Community: Author and Speaker
Beyond his work in the classroom and his role as a campus advocate, Bostrom was a published author and an in-demand speaker. His writing reflected his deep connections to the Saint John's community and its history.
He authored three books:
- “A Legacy Unrivaled”: A detailed account chronicling the life and career of legendary Johnnie football coach John Gagliardi, who was also a close friend of Bostrom's.
- “I Believe”: A memoir he co-wrote with another SJU icon, Bill Sexton, capturing stories of faith and community.
- “The New Start”: A work of fiction, this novel tells the story of a young auditor who becomes entangled in an insider trading scandal.
An Enduring Legacy of Dedication
Bostrom's dedication to his students and his profession was evident until the very end. According to the university, he continued to teach his classes even as he faced significant health issues in recent weeks, a testament to his love for teaching and his commitment to his students' education.
His influence extended from the football field of his youth to the lecture halls where he shaped future leaders in business and finance. His legacy is one of service, passion, and an unwavering belief in the mission of the institutions he called home.
The College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University community extends its deepest condolences to his wife, Kacey, and the entire Bostrom family.
