Beloved Dean Concludes 34 Years of Service with $25,000 Commitment to Student Scholarships

Alabama A&M University administrators, students, faculty, staff, alumni and community partners filled the Ernest Knight Center Thursday evening to honor longtime professor and newly retired dean of the College of Agricultural, Life and Natural Sciences (CALNS), Dr. Lloyd T. Walker.

The celebration recognized Walker’s 34 years of service to Alabama A&M University and marked his official retirement effective Jan. 1.

Walker joined Alabama A&M in 1992 as a young scientist whose poultry science research was already gaining national recognition. After the University learned of his work and invited him to campus, he began what would become a distinguished career defined by scholarship, leadership and an unwavering commitment to students.

Throughout his tenure, Walker served in numerous teaching and administrative roles, ultimately becoming dean of the College of Agricultural, Life and Natural Sciences and director of 1890 Research. Colleagues noted that across every position, his focus remained consistent: strengthening academic programs, supporting students and advancing Alabama A&M University’s 1890 land-grant mission.

The evening program opened with greetings from Dr. Douglas LaVergne, CALNS interim dean and associate vice president for faculty and undergraduate studies, followed by a meditation from the Rev. Dr. Oscar Montgomery, pastor of Union Hill Primitive Baptist Church. Grace was offered by Dr. Josh Herring, professor of food biochemistry and coordinator of the Bachelor of Science in food science degree program. Dr. Cynthia Smith, retired professor and former chair and emeritus faculty member in family and consumer sciences, served as mistress of ceremonies.

The celebration was facilitated by Dr. Ethel G. Jones, chair of the Department of Family and Consumer Sciences, along with CALNS department chairs, students, faculty and staff.

Tributes throughout the evening reflected the breadth of Walker’s influence across the University and beyond. Former Alabama A&M University President Dr. Andrew Hugine Jr. noted that current President Dr. Daniel K. Wims was unable to attend the celebration due to travel commitments. Hugine then shared reflections on their professional relationship and friendship, including collaborative efforts—such as multiple trips to China—to expand agricultural and academic programs for students.

Additional remarks were offered by Dr. Alton Thompson of the Association of Research Directors; Dr. Tau Kadhi, associate vice president for academic affairs and dean of graduate studies; Dr. Zhengtao Deng, dean of the College of Engineering, Technology and Physical Sciences; Dr. Ernst Cebert, retired manager of the Winfred Thomas Agricultural Research Center; retired Maj. Joseph Rucker on behalf of the ROTC program, which falls under CALNS; and Dr. Bernice Richardson, retired chair of the Department of Family and Consumer Sciences. Each shared personal reflections on Walker’s leadership, congratulated him on his retirement and, often with humor, offered advice for his next chapter, while underscoring his dedication to students and the continued growth of the University.

Alumnus and University partner Billy Bridgeforth, owner of Bridgeforth Farms, reflected on his years of working with Walker, including traveling to the U.S. Capitol for funding. Katelyn Boyle, a doctoral candidate in food science, offered remarks from the student perspective, highlighting Walker’s mentorship and encouragement.

Several dignitaries presented proclamations and plaques honoring Walker, including Alabama State Reps. Dr. Laura Hall and Anthony Daniels. Dr. Jeanette Jones, University Distinguished Professor, University trustee and Faculty Senate president, presented a plaque on behalf of the University faculty. The chairs of CALNS departments also presented Walker with a plaque to honor his years of mentorship and service.

Family tributes provided some of the evening’s most heartfelt moments. Walkers’ wife of 45 years, Fay Walker, shared that retirement will allow her husband more time to rest, travel and be with family. “He’s been married to this job all these years, but now we have him to ourselves,” she said. 

Their daughter, Dr. Karlene Walker Shirley, reflected on growing up in her father’s laboratory and the lessons she learned by watching his commitment to science and students. She also read a poem written by her sister Carol titled “Daddy.” With one of Walker’s grandchildren seated on the dais—occasionally greeting guests—the moment underscored the central role of family in his life.

A video tribute followed, featuring the Walkers’ son, Kibwe, an AAMU biology graduate, along with students, faculty and staff from across CALNS, each offering congratulations and gratitude for Walker’s leadership and legacy.

Walker closed the program with remarks of appreciation.

“I don’t know what to say,” he began. “Thank you all so much.” He thanked former President Hugine and First Lady Abbiegail Hugine for attending and reflected on his decision to retire.

“Dr. Hugine told me, ‘You will know when it’s time,’ and he was right,” Walker said. “It was a tough decision, but I’m looking forward to spending time with my children and grandchildren and traveling with my wife. I will miss the students here most.”

Referring to plans to establish a scholarship in his name, Walker concluded, “I want to kick it off with a $25,000 donation. I will always put students at Alabama A&M University first.”