Dr. Jan Walker Honored with Emerita Status

Jan Walker, a former professor in A&M-Commerce's Business Administration & Management Information Systems department, has been conferred the title of “Professor Emerita,” signifying her long and distinguished service to the university. President Dan R. Jones presented Walker with a certificate commemorating the honor in a ceremony Thursday afternoon.

Emeritus status is conferred by The Texas A&M University System Board of Regents. Walker's designation went into effect in August 2012.

After her appointment in 1972, Walker devoted 38 years to A&M-Commerce, during which she taught courses in international business, business communications and business research. Throughout her career, Walker served on more than 50 department, college and university committees. She has also published over 25 scholarly articles.

Dr. Don English, who served as Walker's department head for 22 years and recommended her for emerita status, said that she was one of his best faculty members.

“In addition to being an outstanding teacher, Dr. Walker was a prolific researcher. Jan was always more than willing to do whatever was necessary for the success of the department,” said English.

Walker's dedication to A&M-Commerce as a professor was a natural inclination. She received her bachelor's in business education from the university in 1965, when it was known as East Texas State University (ETSU). Walker received her master's in business from ETSU the following year before going on to earn a doctorate in business education from the University of Oklahoma in 1969.

During the course of her time at A&M-Commerce—as a student and as a professor—Walker notes that the institution has changed significantly but not entirely.

“In many ways, it's changed a lot—the way the campus looks, and of course, a lot of the people have changed. But it still has a very personal touch for the students,” said Walker.

President Jones indicated that Walker's retirement in January 2011 left some current university members, including himself, without the opportunity to witness her service firsthand.

“We didn't get a chance to work together, but she had an extraordinary career here. She obviously touched the lives of thousands of students, including some people who still work with us today. We're very fortunate that we're finally able to present her with this much-deserved recognition,” said Jones.

After the presentation, Walker said that she is highly appreciative of the accolade.

“It is such an honor,” said Walker. “I am so grateful for it and grateful for those people at this university who have been a great part of my life for so many years.”