Niagara College joins all of Niagara in mourning the loss of Norris Walker, whose life of service and philanthropy has enhanced the lives of so many in our community.
Together with his late wife, Marilyn, his extended family and group of companies, Norris’ generosity toward Niagara College and its students is reflected in specialized spaces on our campuses and in the lives and accomplishments of thousands of students and graduates.
While the most visible examples of the Walker family’s contributions to Niagara College include the Walker Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre and the Marilyn I. Walker Centre of Excellence in Visual Arts and Technology, the impact of their support runs much deeper.
“Norris’ legacy lives on not only in the campus buildings that bear his family name but also in the lives of our students, so many of whom would have been unable to pursue and achieve their dreams if not for the generosity of the Walkers,” said Niagara College President Sean Kennedy. “On behalf of all of us at Niagara College, I extend our sincere sympathy and gratitude to the Walker family.”
Norris and Marilyn, along with the Walker group of companies, have made significant contributions to several Niagara College initiatives over the years in support of facilities, equipment and student awards, including the Next Century, FutureReady and Achieving Dreams campaigns, the Dan Patterson Legacy Campaign and the Saundra Patterson Memorial Garden. In 2004, they established the Norris and Marilyn Walker Scholarship, an endowed award that benefits students in technology and business programs.
“Norris and Marilyn’s generosity can be seen in all corners of Niagara – from healthcare and the arts to housing supports and education,” said Gord Arbeau, Vice President, Advancement. “Norris recognized the key role that Niagara College plays in the economic and social fabric of Niagara and through his remarkable support, he made important investments in facilities, spaces and people to the benefit of our college and our community.”
Norris and Marilyn were familiar faces at many college events over the years, including annual fundraising galas. A pair of benches at the Wetland Ridge Trail at the Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake honour the memories of Marilyn and daughter Jenny who passed away in 2006.
Niagara College sends its heartfelt condolences to Norris’ daughters Elizabeth and Sheila and the extended Walker family. College flags have been lowered to honour Norris’s memory.
