Office of Governor Gary Locke
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - October 27, 1997
Contact:  Governor's Communications Office, 360-902-4136

George Walker to head Developmental Disabilities Council

OLYMPIA - Gov. Gary Locke today announced he has appointed former US West executive George Walker to serve as chairman of a panel charged with advising the governor and advocating on behalf of individuals with disabilities.

Walker, who capped a career spanning more than four decades with the Bell System by serving as regional vice president for public policy, will lead the 33-member council effective immediately. He replaces Doug Sayan, who resigned.

Locke praised Walker for his willingness to serve in this important unpaid position. "Washington state is extremely fortunate to have someone of George Walker's caliber willing to serve in this critical capacity," Locke said. "This is very good news for Washington residents with developmental disabilities and their families."

Both during his career with US West, and following his retirement more than two years ago, Walker, a Shoreline resident, has been very active in community affairs on a host of issues. He previously served on a wide range of boards, including the Seattle Alliance for Education and United Way of King County, and was chairman of the Association of Washington Business. He continues to serve on the board of directors for the University of Washington Foundation, the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Foundation and many other groups. He was chairman and remains a board member for the Greater Seattle Chamber of Commerce.

Walker, 68, is active in a number of groups which address issues related to people with developmental disabilities, including the Resource Center for the Handicapped and the Washington Initiative for Supported Employment. He also was appointed to a work group created by Department of Social and Health Services Secretary Lyle Quasim to make recommendations on issues related to who is best served in community settings and who may be best served at state institutions. One of Walker's two grown sons has autism.

"I look forward to leading the council during these challenging times," Walker said. "I am confident we can improve services to people with developmental disabilities and by doing so, not only enhance their quality of life but also expand their capacity to contribute to the overall community."

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