Bluefield University introduced Tonia Walker as its new Athletic Director at a news conference Wednesday afternoon.
Before a large gathering of family, friends, media, staff, and faculty, Walker was expressed thanks as she accepted her new position.
“Thank you for allowing me to steward this great institution and to serve the student-athletes and the staff at Bluefield University as we forge ahead and work collaboratively to create greatness on this campus,” Walker said in her opening remarks.
She continued, “Today marks a significant day in history for Bluefield University. I stand as the first female director of athletics for this great institution. I don’t take it for granted that I stand on the shoulders of women who paved the way for me to have the opportunity, who took the licks for me to simply be at the table. As I step to the directorship it is my goal to continue to build on the legacy that is here and the level of excellence that was established before me and to move the program to higher ground.”
Walker comes to BU after serving as Athletic Director at Winston-Salem State University. She was joined at Wednesday’s event by her husband Wayne, daughter Daijah, and granddaughter Skylar.
Following her comments, Walker fielded questions from media and later met with members of the athletic department. She assumes official duties on July 1.