Awards

IU Indianapolis Spirit of Philanthropy Award - 2023

About Frank D. Walker

Frank and Jane Walker are key volunteer leaders for the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, where their engagement with faculty and students fosters curiosity, innovation, and discovery. Their generous lead gift championed the establishment of the Dr. Patrick M. Rooney Fund for Philanthropic Discovery in honor of the distinguished faculty member and administrator. The gift will provide both scholarships and research funding for future generations of philanthropic scholars, two of the Walker’s and Dr. Rooney’s passions. Jane earned her bachelor’s degree in history at Sweet Briar College, where she later served on the board of directors. She continues to share her love for history with the local community, most recently serving as a board member of Indiana Landmarks.

After serving in the U.S. Air Force, Frank became director of sales at Walker Information in 1960. The company, founded in 1939 by his mother, Dorothy “Tommie” Walker, named him president in 1967 and chairman and CEO in 1983. During his tenure, Frank was particularly interested in developing products that measured the ethical culture and evaluated the value and impact of corporate social responsibility of businesses.