Board of Regents' Charlie Walker (JD '15) Named Caruso School of Law's Young Distinguished Alumni Honoree
Alumnus and Board of Regents member Charlie Walker has been named Pepperdine Caruso School of Law's Distinguished Young Alumni honoree. A prominent legal executive with a career defined by versatility and precision, Walker has successfully navigated the legal landscapes of some of the world’s most demanding industries. In addition to this honor, he will serve as the guest speaker for the annual 3L Breakfast on Wednesday, May 20, 2026. A cherished graduation-morning tradition, the student-centered event provides a final opportunity for the Class of 2026 to celebrate their collective achievements alongside their peers before the commencement ceremony.
"From his days as a standout student through his distinguished legal career and leadership—including his current service as general counsel at Graham Healthcare Capital and as a member of Pepperdine University’s Board of Regents—Charlie Walker has consistently embodied the very best of Pepperdine Caruso Law," shared Paul L. Caron, Duane and Kelly Roberts Dean of the Pepperdine University Caruso School of Law. "His professional life and character serve as a powerful example for our graduates. I am delighted to welcome Charlie back to the 3L Breakfast to honor him as our 2026 Young Distinguished Alumnus of the Year."
Walker serves as general counsel and chief compliance officer of Graham Healthcare Group, the healthcare division of Graham Holdings Company (NYSE: GHC), formerly The Washington Post Company. In this role, he leads the legal, regulatory, and compliance strategy for a diversified healthcare platform spanning home health, hospice, and technology-enabled care, directing the legal team as the firm continues its growth through acquisitions and the expansion of its existing businesses. Prior to Graham Healthcare, Walker served as general counsel for WireMasters, a multinational aerospace and defense supplier, where he advised family ownership on corporate governance, estate planning, and business succession matters.
Hailing from a family with professional roots in the healthcare industry, Walker understands the effort required to care for patients, manage a business, and stay apprised of the ever-growing regulatory landscape. He began his career as an associate in the corporate and intellectual property practice groups of Holland & Knight’s Nashville office, focusing on healthcare transactions. A dedicated advocate for higher education, he currently serves on the Board of Regents of Pepperdine University, where he is a member of the Audit, Governance, and Advancement Committees.
Walker holds a BS from Harding University, where he served as student body president and majored in biochemistry and molecular biology; an MBA from Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management; and a JD from Pepperdine Caruso School of Law. At Pepperdine, he earned a certificate from the Straus Institute for Dispute Resolution, competed on the interschool Moot Court team, and received the Parris Institute Award for Excellence in Character. Walker is admitted to the Tennessee Bar and is able to practice before the US District Court for the Middle District of Tennessee, the US Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit, and the US Supreme Court. He is also a registered patent attorney admitted to practice before the US Patent and Trademark Office.
Walker is married to his wife, Erin, and they are the parents of four boys.
"While I wouldn't use the word 'distinguished' to describe myself, I am extremely grateful and honored to be counted among the many talented alumni of the Pepperdine University Caruso School of Law," said Walker. "Pepperdine occupies a vital place in legal education—rooted in Christian faith, committed to forming lawyers who are trusted counselors, peacemakers, and justice seekers, not combatants for hire. I hope to play some small part in ensuring that mission continues."
For more news and information on upcoming events, visit the Pepperdine Caruso School of Law website.