Webster University Celebrates Early Completion of $100,000 Walker Challenge

ST. LOUIS, Sept. 29 - Webster University has exceeded its goal of matching a $100,000 challenge gift from George Herbert Walker III for the George Herbert Walker III International Study Award. Through a challenge gift made by Ambassador Walker, Webster University has raised more than $230,000 to benefit business students who aspire to add an international component to their global educational experience but lack the necessary financial resources.

"We are thrilled that Ambassador Walker has made available funds to allow more students from the George Herbert Walker School of Business & Technology to have an international study experience," said Dr. Elizabeth (Beth) J. Stroble, president of Webster University. "Support of the Walker Challenge from Webster alumni and friends has been overwhelming. Exceeding our goal three months before the challenge ended underscores our community's outpouring of support for Ambassador Walker and his steadfast endorsement of Webster University's exceptional model of global education."

Dr. Benjamin Ola. Akande, dean of the George Herbert Walker School of Business & Technology commented, "Ambassador Walker is the type of leader we wish to set forth as an example for our students. Our mission is only half accomplished if we simply graduate well-educated business people. We must be equally focused on the type of business people they'll become – global citizens who do well by doing good. I can think of no finer example of that than Ambassador Walker."

Ambassador Walker joined the University's Board of Trustees in 1974 and served as board chairman twice – from 1987 to 1992, and again from 2008 to 2009. He was named a Life Trustee of the University in 2003 and also served for many years as chairman of the advisory board of Webster's school of business. In April 2010, Webster University named its business school the George Herbert Walker School of Business & Technology, to honor the former U.S. ambassador to Hungary, philanthropist, civic leader and longtime Webster supporter.