By: Katina Rice-Davis, Staff Writer
katina@thewoodrufftimes.com
Within the halls of the Columbia VA Healthcare System, one finds the steadfast dedication of Ms. Angela Walker, serving as the Executive Assistant to the Assistant Director. Notably, she holds the distinction of being the first African American to assume this pivotal role. Her responsibilities span overseeing critical service areas, including chaplaincy, nutrition & food services, emergency management, police services, community relations, and engagement. Furthermore, she provides instrumental support in managing non-VA Care Coordination and the esteemed Fisher House, offering accommodation to families of hospitalized veterans.
A product of Woodruff High School and Spartanburg High School, Angela’s academic journey culminated in a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology from South Carolina State University. Armed with her expertise as a trained Six Sigma Yellow Belt professional and seasoned subject matter expert, she spearheads various initiatives aimed at enhancing clinical alert volume, optimizing call response rates, standardizing correspondence, and improving vaccination rates for veterans and their families.
Demonstrating exemplary leadership, Angela has completed numerous programs. She channels her wealth of experience into mentoring future leaders within the VA, advocating for best practices, and pioneering innovative approaches to elevate the standard of care for our nation’s heroes.
Angela’s prowess has not gone unnoticed, as she is entrusted with overseeing high-priority projects for senior management officials across the VA, earning accolades from leadership as a consummate professional and rising star. Her exceptional contributions were recently underscored by a “coin” presented by US Secretary of Veterans Affairs Denis McDonough during his visit to the Veteran Affairs Outpatient Clinic in Greenville, SC, symbolizing her membership in an exclusive group and recognition of her outstanding achievements throughout her tenure since 2007.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Angela finds strength in her family, being the proud spouse of retired US Army SSG Mark Walker and the loving mother of three daughters, Jazmin, Amber, and Maya. She extends her gratitude to her parents, Mr. Ulius “Boot” Gilliam and Ms. Ruby Greene Moore, as well as her cherished grandmothers, Ms. Martha Greene and Ms. Mary Ruth Dogan.
Author: Tracy Sanders
