Providing educational programming is at the core of NEFA’s mission and remains one of the most valuable offerings of the association. In 2011, NEFA Board Member and a tireless industry advocate, Chris Walker, passed away. Chris Walker was VP of Business for GreatAmerica Financial Service in Cedar Rapids, IA.
Since Chris Walker passed away, many NEFA Members and other industry professionals had asked if there was some way they could make a donation to honor and continue Chris’ great service to this industry. As the decision was made to rename the NEFA Member of the Year Award, donations just began to come in. In response, NEFA also created the Chris Walker Education Fund. Chris was a tireless proponent of industry education, as evidenced by his active participation in conferences, classes, and committees of a range of industry groups. Chris Walker embodied the spirit of giving back by actively helping NEFA and its members as a volunteer. The Chris Walker Education Fund honors the selfless efforts of members who strive to improve and give back to our industry.
Chris Walker was a champion for education both within his own company and within the industry. He was truly devoted to advancing education for the equipment finance industry. He gave so much of himself and his time to promote the importance of education and involvement in the industry. He would undoubtedly be very honored that his influence on the professionalism and expertise of our industry will continue well beyond his lifetime through this education fund. He has left behind a great legacy with his years of service and friendship to so many whose lives he touched.
In the spirit of Chris Walker’s passion for education and his embrace of all efforts and opportunities that supported it, the Chris Walker Education Fund will be used to further the education and professional development mission of NEFA both within the Association and beyond it. Throughout the years, various networking events and golf outings are held to continue raising funds to support this mission. Members can apply for these funds annually. To fill-out an online Grant Request please use the form below.
