Bynum Shaw, who always brought perspective to his writing and humor to personal interactions passed away at his home in Winston-Salem on Aug. 27, 2001. Bynum entered Wake Forest in 1940 on a debating scholarship and participated until his studies were interrupted by World War II. His wit and special charm were perfected, in part, in his forensics competitions, which included, winning 1st in After Dinner Speaking at the Grand Eastern Tournament in 1942, a prestigious competition. He also served in the Literary Societies chairing central activities such as the Society Day debates. Along with heavyweights C. C. Hope, Sam Behrends, Gene Worrell, Bynam contributed to one of the "golden eras" of Wake Debate.

After serving in U.S. Merchant Marines, he returned to Wake Forest in 1946 after World War II to complete his bachelor's degree. In his senior year, he was editor of the Old Gold & Black. He later spent many years serving as the student newspaper's faculty advisor. After a distinguished journalism career including Washington and European correspondent for the Baltimore Sun, he returned to Wake Forest in 1965. His writings included numerous books including The History of Wake Forest College, Volume IV 1943-67.