After graduating from Baylor with a degree in sociology in 1967, Walker spent 32 years as a licensed clinical social worker, and led the state of California’s Department of Mental Health’s inpatient and outpatient mental health programs for a number of years. She oversaw inpatient and outpatient services for the California Department of Mental Health, helping patients transition from state hospitals into homes and jobs. Her work was responsible for three decades of patients finding the right help and receiving assistance to transition back into jobs and the community after treatment.
Although her career took her far away from Baylor, she has returned many times to share her experiences with Baylor students. In 2017, Walker was named a recipient of the Baylor Alumni Medal of Service Award for her dedication to advancing her field and making significant impacts in our world.