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91¶ÌÊÓƵ graduate student Ashley Walker believes music education is vital to all students, and thanks to a recent scholarship from the California State University Foundation, he’s one step closer to pursuing music and music education as a career.

Walker, 32, is a second year master’s candidate in the CSUEB choral conducting program. He was recently notified by the CSU Foundation that he is the recipient of the 2016-17 CSU Trustees’ Award for Outstanding Achievement.

According to the foundation, Walker received the recognition and $6,000 scholarship as a result of his “superior academic performance, exemplary community service, and significant personal accomplishments.”

Walker said he credits his mentor Dr. Buddy James, founding director of CSUEB’s School of Arts and Media, with motivating and guiding him during his time as a Pioneer. He said he hopes the award also brings recognition to the educators at CSUEB, particularly in the music department.

“The scholarship is important because it brings attention to the fantastic educators of the CSUEB music department …,” Walker said. “Winning this award shows how both music and academics can lead to a successful future.”

The CSU Board of Trustees and Chancellor Timothy P. White will formally recognize and congratulate Walker at a meeting Sept. 20 in Long Beach.