Office of the President

William "Bill" L. Walker, Jr. is a proven leader in both business and public service with decades of experience shaping education, workforce development, and economic growth in Arkansas.

Mr. Walker served as a State Representative, a State Senator, and the Director of the Arkansas Department of Career Education, managing a $120 million budget and leading statewide programs in career and technical education. Under his leadership, Arkansas became a national leader in GED success rates and launched innovative programs like the Microsoft Academy.

In addition to his public service, Bill was the former Chair of the Little Rock Airport Commission for five years, helping to guide a key economic engine in the city with a budget of over $100 million. He's also a successful entrepreneur, serving as President of Power Group Enterprises, which manages several restaurants in Little Rock area — and operating Premier Funeral Home, a family business that has served the community for over 25 years.

In Higher Education Bill has served on the Board of Trustees for over 8 years, in which he held such positions as Finance Chair and Chairman of the Board. Now serving as President of Arkansas Baptist College, Bill continues his lifelong mission to help young people build skills and access opportunities for a brighter future and success.