Wednesday, April 12, 2000

Wilmington, N.C. - Robert O. Walton, Jr., UNCW's vice chancellor for business affairs, will be presented with the Distinguished Eagle Scout Award April 27 during a UNCW Board of Trustees reception. This national honor recognizes men for their service to the community and achievement in their chosen profession, and who have been an Eagle Scout for at least 25 years.

Walton, who was nominated for this award by the (BSA) Cape Fear Council, is only the second known recipient of the award in this council.

"When a young man becomes an Eagle Scout, he is challenged to give back to the community, and this award demonstrates the significant way Bob Walton has contributed throughout his adult life," said Doug Clevinger, scout executive of the Cape Fear Council.

His document of nomination quoted "During his tenure in his position at UNCW, he has helped UNC Wilmington to grow to the seventh largest campus (of 16) in the University of North Carolina system. Walton is currently overseeing more than $60 million in new construction on the campus, including the recently completed Marine Science Center. Under his leadership, the Endowment Fund has increased to more than $20 million, the budget is approximately $128 million, and the total physical plant is valued at $161 million. During the same time period, the enrollment of students has increased to 9,758 students."

Walton was also elected president of the local chapter of the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) and was selected to serve two terms on the National IMA Board of Directors, where he also served on several national committees. "He has answered the call of his own Eagle Scout challenge to the community," Clevinger said.