Devra Walker, a woman who chose Statesboro years ago as the right place to raise a family and build a business, was named the 2013 Business Leader of the Year by the Statesboro-Bulloch Chamber of Commerce Thursday.
    Walker, who along with husband Lindsay own Walker Pharmacy’s five locations as well as other businesses, gave credit to her employees as she took the spotlight during the Chamber’s annual meeting, held at Georgia Southern University’s Nessmith-Lane Continuing Education building.
    “I am just blown away,” she said. “I didn’t expect this. I don’t feel worthy of this, and I can look around and see many, many more who are more deserving.”
    Darron Burnette, second vice chair of the Statesboro-Bulloch Chamber of Commerce board, introduced Walker by dropping clues as to her identity as he spoke.
    “The 2013 Business Leader of the Year exemplifies the highest standards of service and a desire to continue to advance and improve the economic climate of Bulloch County,” he said. “Our recipient chose this community to start a career, raise a family, and ultimately open a business.”
    Walker graduated summa cum laude from the University of Georgia in 1983, with a Bachelors degree in accounting. She later achieved a Masters in accounting and carried her 4.0 GPA through graduate school. 
    The Walkers then moved to Statesboro where she worked as a CPA before opening Walker Pharmacy in 1984.  Lindsay worked as the pharmacist while Devra served as buyer and the CFO for the business, roles that she continues to hold at present.
     The business started with five employees and has grown to more than 80 employees and five locations.
    Walker “is known for her integrity in her business and personal life, her character above reproach … and her service to others in our community,” Burnette said.
    Walker served on the Bulloch County Development Authority for the past ten years and currently holds the position of secretary and treasurer.
    She also served on the board of directors for a local bank, as well as in various positions for the Statesboro Service League over a twenty-year period, including president.
    Very active in her church, Statesboro Primitive Baptist, Walker has served on several committees. She served on the Bulloch Academy executive board of directors as treasurer and served on the Statesboro-Bulloch Chamber of Commerce board of directors.
     A member of the Georgia Society of CPAs, she served as president of the Southeast Division. Walker was honored as a past Business Woman of the Year by the Professional Women of Statesboro. 
     In addition to the Walker Pharmacy locations, the Walkers own a children’s specialty shop, Little Doses, as well as The Laundry Mat across the parking lot from Walker Pharmacy and Little Doses on Northside Drive East.
    Also, the couple owns multiple locations of Walker Home Medical in Statesboro and Savannah. 
    As she accepted her award, Walker praised her employees and gave them credit for the businesses’ success. She also gave credit to her husband, whom she said “has the vision to do things.
    “We have loved being a part of this community,” she said. “We came here straight out of college. I just love what I do every day. When you love who you’re working with, it makes every day worthwhile.
    “Thank you,” she said. “I’m honored, and I hope one day I’ll be worthy of this community.”
    Other business was conducted during the Chamber’s annual meeting, including naming Keely Fennel as the 2013 Chamber board chairman. Also, following tradition, a video directed by Frank Fortune highlighted the past year for the chamber. Following a James Bond theme, the video pointed out accomplishments and achievements in 2012.
   
    Holli Deal Bragg may be reached at (912) 489-9414.