Seminole County Schools

In a ceremony filled with gratitude and admiration, Dr. Charles Walker was honored Monday night for his exceptional service to the Seminole County Board of Education and the Donalsonville community. Recognized as the oldest elected Board of Education member in the state of Georgia, Dr. Walker received a Distinguished Service Award presented by the Georgia School Boards Association (GSBA).

The special presentation took place during the Seminole County Board of Education’s monthly meeting, where GSBA Executive Director Valarie Wilson and GSBA President Amy Murphy delivered the award. In addition, Paul Fryer, Field Representative from Congressman Sanford Bishop’s office, presented further recognition on behalf of the congressman, honoring Dr. Walker’s lifelong commitment to public service.

Dr. Walker has served on the Seminole County Board of Education since January 2009, bringing thoughtful leadership, steady guidance, and unwavering dedication to students, staff, and families across the district. His influence in the community, however, reaches far beyond his board tenure.

After serving in the Vietnam War, Dr. Walker returned to Donalsonville in 1968 and began a distinguished career in medicine and general surgery. Over decades of service, he earned the respect of patients and colleagues alike for his skill, compassion, and steadfast commitment to caring for others.

GSBA’s official citation highlighted both his professional accomplishments and the personal legacy he has built. All three of Dr. Walker’s children pursued careers in medicine—two of them becoming surgeons—reflecting the values of service, scholarship, and dedication that he instilled.

“Dr. Walker’s contributions to public education and to the Donalsonville community are immeasurable,” the GSBA recognition stated. “His leadership has strengthened the district and left a lasting impact on generations to come."

Throughout the evening, speakers praised Dr. Walker not only for his long tenure on the board, but also for the integrity, humility, and genuine care that have defined his decades of service.

As Seminole County celebrated this milestone, Dr. Walker’s recognition stood as a testament to a life dedicated to helping others—whether in the operating room, in the school board chamber, or throughout the Donalsonville community he has called home for more than 55 years.