MSU names recipient of honorary doctorate

Walker, one of SBJ’s 2003 Most Influential Women, is the fourth recipient of an honorary doctorate from MSU, joining past recipients Sister Lorraine Biebel, formerly of The Kitchen; Harold Bengsch, formerly of the Springfield-Greene County Health Department; and David Harrison, businessman and children’s author, in receiving the honor.

Walker’s community efforts include serving on the boards of directors of several local, state and national organizations. She led efforts to create Founders Park in downtown Springfield and has done a great deal to aid downtown rejuvenation.

“After nearly half a century of service to her adopted community, it is with extreme pleasure that we honor Pat Walker with this degree,” said Edward DeLong, assistant professor of library science and chair of MSU’s honorary doctorate selection committee, in a news release.

More about Walker’s accomplishments and her honorary doctorate will be in SBJ’s Dec. 26 issue.