June 20, 2019

---

MILWAUKEE — Jacqueline Walker, financial aid counselor at Marquette University, is the recipient of the Excellence in Diversity and Inclusion Award.

Walker sums up her philosophy on diversity and inclusion in a word: “unique.” The veteran student financial aid counselor says each student and their families face many unique challenges and experiences as they seek a college education.  

“In my role with the Educational Opportunity Program, I have been fortunate to work with and assist many students and families with understanding the financial aid process necessary to enter and graduate Marquette University,” Walker said. “As I look over the last 34 years working with students, I am looking forward to celebrating EOP’s 50th anniversary and seeing the success of so many EOP alumni.”  

In one nomination letter, a colleague recalls bringing a Native American student who needed assistance to “Miss Jackie.”  

“I had never met Miss Jackie; I had only heard of her quiet power and indomitable spirit from another colleague,” the nominator wrote. “When I walked into her office with the student, it was like walking into the home of extended family warmed by a glowing fire — that fire was Miss Jackie.”  

Another colleague wrote that an award for Walker is long overdue.  

“Jacqueline Walker is one of the unsung heroines at Marquette and exemplifies on a daily basis a welcoming and caring spirit for all of those who cross her pathway,” the nominator wrote. “She is full of boundless energy, compassion and positivity, and is there as a guide to help her students get to graduation day and beyond.”  

The Excellence in Diversity and Inclusion Awards recognizes one faculty member and one staff member who demonstrate exemplary leadership and manifest the ideals of diversity, equity and inclusion into practical action. 

---

About Kevin Conway

Kevin is the associate director for university communication in the Office of University Relations. Contact Kevin at (414) 288-4745 or kevin.m.conway@marquette.edu.