(May 18, 2022)

A Largo-based nonprofit has received a gift focused on arts education, marking the largest gift in its history.

The Pinellas Education Foundation, founded in 1986, received $2 million dedicated to arts in education solely from Dr. Jeffrey Walker, a St. Petersburg-based neurosurgeon and board member of the education foundation.

The $2 million will fund Walker’s Rising Stars, which is a scholarship competition for the arts. The program was in part created by Walker in 2003.

“As we approach our 20th anniversary [for Walker’s Rising Stars], and in thinking about how to give back, I knew I wanted to continue to support students,” Walker said in a statement. “I love kids; they’re the future. I love the arts, and I owe everything I have to education. This program makes a material difference in these students’ lives, and that makes me happy.” (Continue reading)