Blackburn was the President/Founder and CEO of BLACKBURN  ARCHITECTS, which was continuously in practice for forty years. A native of Indianapolis, Walter gained national prominence and left a legacy of significant projects that include the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center in Cincinnati, The Purdue Black Cultural Center, Malcolm X Institute at Wabash College and the Artsgarden where we are gathering this evening. This beautiful structure has become a magnet for the citizens of the city and its visitors, and a postcard image for Indianapolis.

A prodigious and skillful designer and inspiring leader, Walter is revered as honorable, gentlemanly, warm and effortlessly stylish. He would be pleased that our work enables students to enter careers in the arts and in architecture, the profession he loved.

This event also provides me the opportunity to celebrate others in our community who give so much of themselves to make this a city that nurtures creativity and promotes excellence. Our Walter Blackburn Protégé is a tribute to someone who, like Walter, is dedicated to family, community and professional excellence.

We continue to help students in pursuit of not just an excellent education, but a life of leadership, creativity and service. We are so proud to have your support.

Alpha Blackburn