Today@Sam Article

Philanthropy Today: Her Father’s Legacy

Spring 2022
SHSU Media Contact: Emily Binetti

Stacey Walker followed in her father’s footsteps in many ways–she enjoyed math and science, played sports, and worked decades in the oil and gas industry. Unlike her dad, Julian “Jude” Walker, Stacey did not attend Sam Houston State University, but that has not stopped her from creating her own legacy here at SHSU.

Stacey knows the deep connection her dad had to SHSU and how proud he was representing the Bearkats on the football field. She knows how honored Jude was, at the age of 96, to be recognized in Sam Houston State’s 100th football season as the oldest living Bearkat football player. Because of all this, Stacey knew that she wanted to support students, who like her dad, play football at SHSU.

Not long after her dad passed away, Stacey created the Julian “Jude” Walker Memorial Football Endowed Scholarship at SHSU. Just as being a member of the football team was only one part of Jude’s life, it is only one of the many criteria in being selected for this scholarship. Recipients are engineering technology majors who demonstrate active leadership through service and volunteerism within the community. They also must be from a Texas high school because, “Dad grew up in Texas and I have always admired the hospitality, stewardship, and independence of Texans,” Stacey said.

Even though they live out-of-state, Stacey and her partner, Sally, make it a point to attend the annual Face to Face Scholarship Luncheon. “We think it is important to meet each scholarship recipient, learn more about them, and tell them a little about Dad’s life so maybe they can make a connection with him.”

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