By Tom Jordan
"My entry into sport is somewhat unusual," he wrote in an email from his native Jamaica. "More so from a Jamaican standpoint. I never competed while attending high school."
But several years ago, while in training to become a police officer in Jamaica, it became clear that Burnett had a gift to share other than serving the community as a policeman. Extensive running was a big part of the training regimen, and Burnett dominated the competitions, in every event from 200 to 1500 meters. His instructor, Frank Davis, took notice.
"The instructor recognized some ability and introduced me to track," Burnett wrote. His untapped running ability quickly earned him a scholarship to the GC Foster College of Physical Education and Sport. A year later, Burnett received a scholarship to the New York Institute of Technology, forever changing his life.
"Coach Burnett has always been a great inspiration and role model to his student athletes and he truly deserves this honor," said Clyde Doughty, NYIT's athletics director. "In addition to his many other accomplishments, he played an integral part of the team's second place win at the NCAA Division II Championships. As an NYIT alumnus, he shows a particular dedication to the team."
During his college career, Burnett was a four-time NCAA champion and twice a relay champion. He was ranked among the top 15 runners in the world for two years. Not bad for a man who discovered his talent almost by accident.
"The opportunity to participate in track has meant a lot to me. The exposure and general experience that it has provided me is difficult to quantify," he said.
Burnett's exposure to the world was never so broad than in 1988, when he earned a spot on the Jamaican National team at the Seoul Olympics. As a member of the 4x400m relay squad, Burnett took home a silver medal. He has represented Jamaica in several international track events, including the World Championship Games, the World Cup, the World Student Games, the Commonwealth Games and the Pan-Am Games. In all, Burnett's trophy case holds two gold medals, three bronze, and the silver medal from the '88 Olympics.
"Howard is one of the few people in the entire world who has won a medal at every major international competition," said Peter Zinno, head track coach at NYIT.
While at NYIT, Burnett completed his bachelor's degree in behavioral science in 1991 and earned a master's degree in human resources management and labor relations. Having accomplished so much in competition, Burnett has hung up his spikes and now dedicates his time coaching young athletes.
"I will always have an association in a coaching capacity," he wrote. "A big ambition is to be able to guide an athlete, particularly in the 400-meter event, to realize even more from the sport."
As for the Hall of Fame, Burnett said, "With much pride I was inducted."
