Webster University Names Business School in Honor of Benefactor Ambassador George Herbert Walker III

Savannah, GA, May 01, 2010 --(PR.com)-- Webster University announced it is naming its business school the George Herbert Walker School of Business and Technology, to honor the former U.S. ambassador to Hungary, philanthropist, civic leader and longtime Webster supporter. In 2007, Ambassador Walker bestowed upon Webster a gift of $10 million – the largest in the University's history – and designated it to benefit the business school. News of the naming was delivered during a celebration event today at Webster’s Community Music School.

"George Herbert Walker is a treasured name at Webster University," said Webster President Elizabeth (Beth) J. Stroble. "When you look back over the last 35 years at Webster, you find that that name holds a prominent place in our history. Since 1974, George Herbert Walker has been a warrior for Webster, a leader of great spirit and vision."

Ambassador Walker joined the University's Board of Trustees in 1974 and served as board chairman twice – from 1987 to 1992, and again from 2008 to 2009. He was named a life trustee of the University in 2003 and also served for many years as chairman of the advisory board of Webster’s business school.

During the naming ceremony today, Ambassador Walker's cousins, former President George H.W. Bush and former President George W. Bush, delivered congratulatory remarks via video.

"For more than 30 years, Bert has supported and promoted Webster University around the world," said the elder President Bush. "It is appropriate that Webster University is honoring Bert Walker by announcing the School of Business and Technology will be named the George Herbert Walker School of Business and Technology. It also is important to acknowledge that the name George Herbert Walker will appear on all Webster University campuses nationally and internationally."

"Bert, thank you very much for your patriotism, generosity and your support of Webster University," said President George W. Bush. "Bert's a trustworthy fellow – so much so that I asked him to become my ambassador to Hungary. Bert, you did a fabulous job there, just like you're doing a fabulous job promoting higher education in St. Louis."

Ambassador Walker is a graduate of Yale University and Harvard Law School. He also has received honorary degrees from Webster University, Harris-Stowe State University, and two universities in Hungary – the University of Pecs and St. Istvan University.

Webster University, which has campuses on Fort Stewart and Hunter AAF, GA, is a worldwide institution committed to delivering high-quality learning experiences that transform students for global citizenship and individual excellence. The St. Louis main campus, founded in 1915, offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs through five schools and colleges, and hosts a global network of more than 100 campuses. Its 20,000-plus student population represents almost 150 nationalities.

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