Former University president dies

By ERIN STROUT
Collegian Staff Writer

Former University President Eric Walker died Friday in his State College home.

Walker, who was 84, suffered from heart disease.

He will be remembered for his ability to make changes and develop the University into a research institution, said Stanley Weintraub, Evan Pugh Professor of Arts and Humanities.

"He brought quality to Penn State," Weintraub said. "He wanted to make it something other than what it was at the time."

During Walker's term from 1956 to 1970, the University went through a period of growth in enrollment and number of faculty members. The faculty doubled in sizefrom 1,500 to 3,200 during that time period, while enrollment tripled from 13,000 to 40,000.

In addition, the University expanded physically. More than 100 new buildings were constructed, and the University's Hershey Medical Center and eight Commonwealth Campuses were established.

"Eric Walker was a great scientist and educator," said University President Joab Thomas, in a prepared statement. "He provided wide and visionary leadership to Penn State that laid the foundation for the growth of the University into one of the premier public research universities in the nation."

Walker also stayed active in science and research as an administrator -- the College of Medicine was established during his tenure, and he was active in the development of national science and technology policy.

On a personal level, Weintraub knew Walker because they were next-door neighbors.

"He was always the engineer --he always had the power equipment," Weintraub said. "He was a tough-minded person -- we got along very well."

In addition to his many other accomplishments, Walker held the campus together during Vietnam-era student unrest and built up funds for the libraries, Weintraub said.

"He was possibly the best president Penn State ever had," he said.

Walker is survived by his wife, Josephine, daughter Gail Walker Hearn, son Brian Walker and two grandchildren.

Christy Rambeau, assistant manager of the University's news bureau, said the funeral will be held at the family's convenience.

of the family, and currently no plans have been set for a memorial service.