SALISBURY, N.C. – Livingstone College proudly celebrates Curtis J. Walker, Vice President of Athletics and Athletic Operations, on being named a recipient of the prestigious Distinguished Alumni Award from Catawba College. This distinguished honor recognizes alumni whose professional achievements, leadership, and service have made a lasting impact on their communities and respective fields. 

For Walker, the award represents a full-circle moment at the institution where his remarkable journey in football and leadership began. A graduate of Catawba College with a degree in Sociology, Walker established himself as one of the most accomplished football players in program history. As a four-year starting linebacker, he earned All-American honors during his final three seasons, was named Catawba's Most Valuable Player in 1991, and served as team captain in 1992. His relentless work ethic and competitive spirit helped cement his legacy, and he still holds the school's single-game tackles record with 25 tackles. Walker's contributions to the game have since been recognized through his induction into both the Catawba Sports Hall of Fame and the South Atlantic Conference Hall of Fame. 

Following his playing career, Walker dedicated more than three decades to coaching and mentoring student-athletes. His coaching journey included stops at Catawba College, Coastal Carolina University, and Western Carolina University before returning to his alma mater as Head Football Coach from 2013 to 2022. Under his leadership, Catawba captured the 2015 South Atlantic Conference Championship and earned a berth in the NCAA Division II Playoffs. His success on the sidelines earned him South Atlantic Conference Coach of the Year honors and reinforced his reputation as a transformational leader.

Today, Walker continues to shape lives through his leadership at Livingstone College. As Vice President of Athletics and Athletic Operations, he oversees the institution's athletic enterprise and is committed to advancing student-athlete success, operational excellence, compliance, fundraising, sponsorship development, and community engagement. His vision has helped strengthen the Blue Bear Athletics brand while creating new opportunities for students to excel academically, athletically, and professionally. 
"Coach Walker's impact extends far beyond wins and losses," said many within the Livingstone community. "He is a leader who develops people, inspires excellence, and creates opportunities for future generations."

The Distinguished Alumni Award serves as a testament to Walker's lifelong commitment to leadership, service, and education. From his historic playing career at Catawba College to his influential role at Livingstone College, he has consistently demonstrated the values of integrity, perseverance, and community impact.

Livingstone College Athletics congratulates Vice President Walker on this well-deserved honor and celebrates the lasting legacy he continues to build throughout higher education and intercollegiate athletics.