Walker family to participate in A" Walk"

FAYETTEVILLE – Long-time University of Arkansas supporter Pat Walker and members of the Walker family will participate in the "A" Walk of Honor on Saturday prior to Arkansas’ football game against Vanderbilt at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium.Pat and her husband, the late Willard Walker, have been long time benefactors of Razorback Athletics and the University of Arkansas. In 1986, they formed the Willard and Pat Walker Charitable Foundation. They are the namesakes of the Walker Family Training Center, which includes the Willard and Pat Walker Pavilion and the Razorbacks’ spectacular 18,000 square-foot weight room facility. The Walkers made the lead gift to initiate the construction of Baum Stadium, a venue consistently ranked as one of the top college baseball facilities in the nation. The Walkers also made a gift for the construction of Bud Walton Arena which includes the Willard and Pat Walker Entry. "We are looking forward to the opportunity to honor a special family who has made an immeasurable impact on the Razorback program," Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics Jeff Long said. "The Walker Family’s generosity has enhanced the lives of thousands of Razorback student-athletes. Their continued philanthropic efforts through the Willard and Pat Walker Charitable Foundation are helping re-shape and improve the standard of living for millions of Arkansans."In addition to their support of Razorback Athletics, the Walkers have made signature gifts to the College of Business’ Willard J. Walker Hall, the Willard and Pat Walker Health Center and the Fowler House. In 2009, the Walker Charitable Foundation made a significant donation for need based academic scholarships at the University of Arkansas."Running through the A" is one of the Razorbacks’ most storied football traditions. While "Running through the A" is a tradition reserved only for members of the Razorback football team, Razorback Athletics created a program to honor those individuals or groups who have played a significant role in the support of Razorback Athletics. Honorees are invited to participate in this unique pre-game experience and are recognized on the video board and over the public address system as they walk through the "A" formed by the Razorback Marching Band. After completing the walk, honorees help complete the "A" before welcoming Coach Bobby Petrino and the Arkansas Razorback football team on the field just prior to kickoff.Previous honorees have included members of the Donald W. Reynolds Foundation and legendary Arkansas coach and athletic director Frank Broyles.