“Jackie” Dupont-Walker, for over 42 years, has been a professional in the public and private sectors. Mrs. Dupont-Walker’s strong commitment and calling to “faith centered and empowering” development has made her a prophetic voice locally and nationally. Early in life she was impacted by the models of an entrepreneurial and visionary father and maternal grandfather who taught her self-determination and self-reliance in the in the context of a strong faith and a commitment to community service. Her maternal role models included a clever “sistah” Grandmom and Mother-dear who demonstrated and expected excellence. “Jackie” pioneered in desegregating a major university, and has trail blazed on behalf of women and people of color in many arenas.

She is the founding president of Ward Economic Development Corporation and for 25 years has led it in developing over 280 units of affordable housing, 1 major shopping mall, encouraging indigenous leadership, creating neighborhood networks, facilitating job creation, conducting asset mapping, and spearheading an intergenerational community building effort. In addition to WEDC “Jackie” serves as the AME Church international Social Action Officer; Lafayette Square Association (President), Delta Sigma Theta – Century City (Social Action chair) and a host of civic organizations. As a lifelong member of the AME Church, “Jackie” created AME V-Alert (voter mobilization). She is an officer of Ward AME Church in LA where she serves on the Board of Stewards (Membership Education chair), chair – Social Action Commission, Lay and Missionary ministries. She has served on a host of committees and commissions; all with the inspiration she receives from her husband and partner, Buford “Sonny” Walker and their desire to make the world a better place for their blended family of 8 adult children, 24 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren.