Dean Emerita Patricia Walker Honored for Excellence

Long-time health professions expert recognized for her work and achievements

Patricia Walker, dean emerita of Sacred Heart University’s College of Health Professions, received a seldom-awarded honor in October.

The Association of Schools Advancing Health Professions (ASAHP) bestowed its Legacy of Excellence Award on Walker at its annual conference in Long Beach, CA. The nonprofit national professional association for administrators and educators in allied health education selected Walker in recognition of her exceptional and enduring level of contributions to allied health professions.

The ASAHP last presented its Legacy of Excellence Award to the University of New England’s former president in 2017.

Walker’s association with ASAHP began in the 1980s. Now, as a recipient of its esteemed award, she said she was “surprised and honored” to learn she was chosen for such recognition and “pleased to know that my activities have been valued. I have volunteered to be a mentor going forward and hope to pass along the opportunities and mentorship I received through my participation in ASAHP throughout the years.”

Walker is the College of Health Professions’ founding dean and currently teaches at the college. Sacred Heart and its Alumni Association Board of Directors recognized her distinguished service to SHU at a special reception in April 2019. The prestigious honor is reserved for faculty and administrators who have had an indelible impact on their students and the University community. 

Pictured: ASAHP President Deb Larsen, right, presents the Legacy of Excellence Award to Patricia Walker in October.