A Gift of $100,000 Amplifies the Sound of Southern University’s Human Jukebox

In a heartwarming display of loyalty and philanthropy, Senior Pastor Bishop Joseph Walker of Mount Zion Baptist Church, a distinguished alumnus of Southern University and A&M College, has orchestrated a symphony of support by donating a staggering $100,000 to the renowned Human Jukebox during the university’s vibrant homecoming week. Walker graduated from Southern University in the fall of 1988. During his time at Southern University, he became a member of the Beta Sigma chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated, the Zeta Nu chapter of Kappa Kappa Psi Honorary Band Fraternity, Incorporated, and was a member of the Human Jukebox as well.
Known for his deep connection to his alma mater and the iconic Human Jukebox, Bishop Walker’s generous contribution resonates beyond the notes played by the marching band, creating a crescendo of gratitude among students, faculty, and alums alike. “The Jukebox has generated so many people of excellence around the world…I thought that it was important for us to give back, support these students who come and oftentimes don’t have the scholarships.” Walker expresses.
This extraordinary gift was announced during the peak of the university’s homecoming festivities, electrifying the campus with a wave of excitement. Bishop Walker, whose ties to Southern University and the Human Jukebox run deep, expressed his profound admiration for the institution that shaped him and the marching band that continues to capture the hearts of many.
“The band program, I think, is essential to the university’s success, so I just wanted to be a blessing and set the bar and say, look, my church is going on an HBCU tour, and I wanted our first stop to be my alma mater, Southern University,” Walker remarked. The $100,000 donation, a testament to Bishop Walker’s commitment to the university’s musical heritage, is earmarked to bolster the Human Jukebox’s resources, ensuring that the band can continue dazzling audiences with unparalleled performances. The funds will be utilized for instrument upgrades, travel expenses to prestigious events, and scholarships to support the talented members of the Human Jukebox.
The Human Jukebox’s Director of Bands, Dr. Kedric Taylor, expressed his gratitude for Bishop Walker’s unwavering support, stating, “We appreciate all of the donations from all of our alumni, 1993,2003, 2013 and Bishop Walker. I want this to be a lesson to all the current Jukes to continue to give even after you graduate.” The alumni classes also joined Walker’s donation from 1993, 2003, and 2013, who gave in the amounts of their graduation years to the Human Jukebox.
The impact of this substantial donation extends beyond the immediate needs of the marching band, serving as an inspiration to current students and an affirmation of the enduring bond between Southern University and its esteemed alums.
As the notes of the Human Jukebox ring across the campus, Bishop Joseph Walker’s benevolence echoes even louder, ensuring that the music and traditions of Southern University continue to flourish for generations to come.