MISSION COLLEGE EDUCATOR
HONORED FOR COMMITMENT TO STUDENTS

The National Council of Negro Women has bestowed its highest honor on Gwen Walker, head of student counseling services at Los Angeles Mission College.

Walker received the organization’s Ida B. Kinney Excellence in Education Award for her commitment to the many students she has counseled over the years. Walker has been with the college since its founding in 1975, beginning as a career guidance counselor and eventually being named counseling department chair in 1993.

"I'm thrilled," Walker said. "Education is the key, and counseling students is my passion in life."

"There are many, many people throughout the San Fernando Valley today who owe their bachelor’s and master’s degrees to Gwen," said Dr. Adriana Barrera, Mission College president.

Linda Carruthers, a colleague and fellow counselor at Mission College, echoed those thoughts.

"Gwen just will not give up on a student," she said, "even when they’re ready to give up on themselves. So many of her former students will tell you that Gwen kept them in school."

The Ida B. Kinney award is given to individuals who are dedicated to education; to helping students reach their highest potential; and to increasing the opportunities available to African American and other students in the San Fernando Valley.

The award was presented to Walker by Los Angeles City Council President Alex Padilla during a Black History Month forum at Mission College on February 27.

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