Dear Howard University Community,

I regret to inform you of the recent passing of Dr. Bailus Walker, Jr., retired Professor of Environmental and Occupational Medicine and Toxicology in the College of Medicine, Department of Community and Family Medicine. Dr. Walker was a distinguished researcher, teacher, and public health professional. Dr. Walker received a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and Chemistry from Kentucky University, a Master of Public Health from the University of Michigan, and a Ph.D. degree in occupational and environmental health from the University of Minnesota. 

Prior to joining the faculty of Howard University, Dr. Walker served as Dean of the College of Public Health at the Health Sciences Center of the University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City. Before moving to Oklahoma, he was Professor of Public Health Policy at the State University of New York at Albany. Dr. Walker was the first non-physician to be appointed Commissioner of Public Health in Massachusetts, Chairman of the Massachusetts State Board of Health, and Michigan State Director of Public Health.

A consummate public health practitioner, Dr. Walker was a past president of the American Public Health Association (APHA). His research interests included lead toxicity and environmental carcinogenesis. In addition to his leadership roles with APHA, he was also a distinguished fellow of both the Royal Society of Health and the American College of Epidemiology. He also served as a senior science advisor for environmental health to the National Library of Medicine. His service included leading various state and federal government working groups, committees, and task forces.

Dr. Walker was elected to membership in the Institute of Medicine (IOM) - National Academy of Sciences (NAS) and served on numerous IOM-NAS commissions/committees, including the Board of Environmental Studies and Toxicology and chairman of the Committee on Toxicology. He was the recipient of many awards and accolades including the Distinguished Alumni Award from the University of Michigan (UM) School of Public Health, and the UM Department of Environmental Health Sciences Award for achievements that exemplify the highest ideals and aspirations of the institution.

The Department of Community and Family Medicine will plan on celebrating Dr. Walker’s life as a community when it is safe and appropriate. Please keep the Walker Family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

Excellence in Truth and Service,

Anthony K. Wutoh, Ph.D., R.Ph.
Provost and Chief Academic Officer