News Article

Edison College President Kenneth Walker Named Hispanic Chamber's Man of the Year

Jun 10, 2008

Edison College District President Kenneth P. Walker was honored by the Southwest Florida Hispanic Chamber as the 2008 Man of the Year at the International Hispanic Gala on Saturday, June 7. Walker was praised for his "commitment and support of education and the Chamber's college scholarship program."

In his acceptance remarks, Walker said that the Chamber and College share several common goals: to support those wishing to better their lives through education, to recognize and embrace the cultural diversity of our community, and to strengthen the regional economy through advocacy and empowerment of business men and women. "Most importantly," he said, "we share a dream for the kind of future we want to create: a future of hope." He spoke of the 1,000 graduates of the Project HOPE [Help One Person Excel] scholarship program, and said he believes that students should not be turned away from a college education because they are unable to pay. Walker is working with the Alliance of Education Leaders and the SW Florida Community Foundation to make this dream come true.

A video tribute highlighting Walker's leadership and commitment to expanding access to a college education featured Florida Lt. Governor Jeff Kottkamp, Dr. Russell Swanson, Edison College Professor of Philosophy and Faculty Senate President, and the Lee Campus Phi Theta Kappa President Jose Garcia.

Walker awarded scholarships to four students who will begin their studies at Edison College in the fall semester. Currently, 17% of the college's credit-seeking students are Hispanic.

Edison College serves a five-county area with campuses in Lee, Charlotte and Collier counties, a center serving Hendry/Glades counties, and through Edison Online. For additional information call 1-800-749-2322 or visit www.edison.edu.

Last Updated: June 10, 2008