Ann Walenta Faculty of Distinction Endowed Professorship

Linda ‘Ann’ Walenta was a remarkable and gifted woman. A graduate of Wichita State University, she earned her bachelor’s degree in instrumental music education in 1968 and her master’s degree in music theory/composition in 1972. She taught music in the public schools of Texas and Oklahoma before returning to Wichita where she was a cello instructor at Friends University, also giving private lessons. A cellist for the Wichita Symphony, she was the group’s librarian as well. In addition to the Wichita Symphony, she performed with symphonies in Oklahoma, Texas and New York.

In January 2001, Mrs. Walenta died of injuries sustained from a shooting during an attempted robbery outside of her home. Her husband, Don, and their two children decided to establish the Ann Walenta Faculty of Distinction Endowed Professorship as a means to continue her music legacy and to honor an exceptional woman. This professorship will provide support for the conductor of the WSU Symphony Orchestra.