The 2021 Chris Walker Education Fund finalized and awarded grants totaling more than $20,125, with nine grants going to individuals and three grants going to institutions, including the Equipment Leasing & Finance Foundation, the Certified Lease & Finance Professional Foundation and the National Equipment Finance Association.

Chris Walker was a passionate leader within the equipment finance industry. His selflessness and dedication to helping others grow in the industry made him a beloved member of the NEFA. Education was always important to Walker, so when he passed away in 2011, many NEFA members flooded the organization with donations in his honor. All of these generous contributions lead the NEFA to create the Chris Walker Education Fund.

Funds from the Chris Walker Education Fund are available to be used for any project or need that provides industry education opportunities for leasing professionals. This includes grants for industry-related education, certifications (such as the CLFP designation), educational development through NEFA conferences and other education initiatives.