Curtis Walker
Whether I was devouring brisket or Egusi, I obtained knowledge through debates with my sisters, my moral compass through lessons from my parents, and wisdom by listening to elders who spoke at the table.
President and founder of The Flossmoor Scholars, Curtis Walker has been instrumental in forging partnerships between high school student tutors and over 100 middle school students benefiting from tutoring in math, science, foreign language, and English. Through enrollment in a rigorous International Baccalaureate (IB) program at his school and frequent conversations with his family around the dinner table, Curtis has developed an interest in medicine. He wrote that, “Sharing a meal is often overlooked in American culture, but for me it meant everything because my pillars were founded at the dinner table. Whether I was devouring brisket or Egusi [a sumptuous Nigerian dish prepared by his grandmother for family gatherings], I obtained knowledge through debates with my sisters [he is the only boy among five siblings], my moral compass through lessons from my parents, and wisdom by listening to elders who spoke at the table.”
Illustrating his keen interest in environmental awareness and STEM-related activities, Curtis co-founded Young Men for Charity Philanthropic Giving Circle, helping to generate enthusiasm and donations for organizations in Chicago that are committed to these causes. A four-year participant in Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA), he served for two years as Assessment Chair, helping students prepare for cluster exams and placing first in business club sectionals in 2020. Participation and leadership in his school’s lacrosse and wrestling teams has nurtured Curtis’ love of recreation and sport. He is an avid naturist and enjoys hiking, surfing, mountain trekking, and white water rafting. He regularly works at Subway, where he has served as night shift manager for the last two years.