A Celebration of the Life of IU Trustee Melanie S. Walker

The Indiana University community is mourning the passing of Melanie Walker, who was appointed to the IU Board of Trustees by then-Gov. Mike Pence in 2016.

She was the chief executive officer of the North American group of companies of Japan-based Tsuchiya Co. In 1994, at age 34, she was the first woman to be named president of a Japanese owned American manufacturing company.

Melanie Walker devoted her time, talent, and resources to many groups and individuals. In addition to her involvement in numerous IU organizations, she was an active member of the boards for the Indiana Economic Development Corp., the Indiana University Credit Union, the Indiana Chamber of Commerce, and Susie's Place Child Advocacy Center. She had a love for children and participated in the Big Brothers Big Sisters program.