Charles U. Walker, who served as Linfield president from 1975-92, will present a lecture titled “The Question of HOW” at this year’s baccalaureate ceremony, held Saturday, June 1, at 5 p.m.
During his 17 years as Linfield’s leader, Walker built a reputation for community involvement, and his retirement has proven no different. The Linfield president emeritus has been prominently involved in the Ford Family Foundation, serving as vice chair of the board and helping design the foundation’s two major initiatives, the Ford Scholars Program and the Ford Institute for Community Building. Walker was founding chair of the Oregon Cultural Trust, which makes grants to cultural organizations in addition to raising funds toward a $200 million permanent endowment.
His interest in education led to his involvement in the Chalkboard Project, designed to help strengthen K-12 education in Oregon. The project is run by Foundations for a Better Oregon, which he chairs. This association is comprised of the Ford Family Foundation, Meyer Memorial Trust, James and Marion Miller Foundation, Collins Foundation, Oregon Community Foundation and JELD-WEN Foundation.
A classical music enthusiast, Walker established Neskowin Chamber Music in 1994. He also combines his interest in international education and travel by leading tours around the world. He served as president of his local library board and as board member of the Tillamook County Futures Council. Walker is vice chair of the James and Marion Miller Foundation, which focuses on the arts and education in Oregon.
The ceremony will be held in the Ted Wilson Gymnasium, located in the Health, Human Performance and Athletics Building.
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