Walker Alumnus Returns with A Big Gift
Denver businessman's firm dontates $15,000

August 5, 2007
By Michael Molaison
The Times Picayune

When O. Perry Walker High School alumnus and Denver businessman Rick Fort saw the devastation Katrina caused to his beloved hometown, he looked for some way to make a difference.

Employees of Fort, founder of Education Sales Management, decided to raise money for New Orleans schools, and ESM matched their contributions. Fort, a member of Walker's first graduating class in 1971, returned to Algiers recently to present a check for $15,000 to the school in a ceremony at the school.

Mary Laurie, O. Perry Walker's principal who has zealously led the school's well-recognized improvements, accepted the donation on behalf of her students and teachers.

This is what we talk about when we use the words 'Charger Pride,' " Laurie said. "The rebirth of O. Perry Walker will not only be the product of our teachers and students, but of those alums that Walker lost along the way who return home in some way to make a difference."

Fort said, "Thanks to people like Mary Laurie, this school is a truly great success story.

"It is a tribute to the pride in the community demonstrated by the parents, teachers and students. I am proud that ESM could play a small role in their success."

Brian Riedlinger, chief executive for the Algiers Charter Schools Association said, "This shows that O. Perry Walker in particular is creating a 'community school.' We hope to continue to expand (the community concept) with the help and support of people like Mr. Fort, who can help us tell the amazing story of what's going on here at Walker."

Looking toward the future and the continued improvement of O. Perry Walker High School, Laurie said, "We proudly accept this donation, because we believe it represents all of those past Chargers who see that Walker is again becoming a place that they can all be proud of."

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Michael Molaison is an Algiers resident who writes about people and events in the community. To reach him, call him at (504) 324-2413 or e-mail him at mike@AlgiersAccent.com.