Find Your Program

Or browse by

Browse our programs

Remembering Walden University Co-founder Bernie Turner

Dear Walden Community,

Once again, we have sad news to share with you. On May 4, Walden University co-founder Bernie Turner passed away, less than a month after the death of his wife and co-founder, Rita.

Bernie was a veteran who served in World War II. When he returned from Europe, he worked in the Department of Veterans Affairs, while enrolled at Columbia University, where he sought an education he could use to improve the world. He then worked as an economist, labor organizer and educator — believing that everyone should have an opportunity to achieve their goals. That belief was at the forefront as he and Rita founded Walden, and it continues as part of their legacy.

We know that many of you recently shared your remembrances of the Turners, who were active in our university community long after their retirement. Here are ours:

“Bernie was a man brimming with ideas and the energy and intellect to make those ideas a reality.” -Paula Singer

“Mr. Turner was a pioneer. And he’s directly responsible for changing my life. Had he and Mrs. Turner not had the forethought of creating a university that was student centered and flexible enough to support working adults, I would’ve never completed my doctoral studies.” -Dr. Ward Ulmer

The university has been in close contact with the Turner family, and we wish to convey our heartfelt condolences to them. Please keep them in your thoughts during this difficult time.

Sincerely,

Dr. Ward Ulmer
President
Walden University

Paula Singer
CEO
Walden University

Whether looking for information on programs, admissions, or financial aid, we're here to help.

Fill out the form and we will contact you to provide information about furthering your education.

Please use our International Form if you live outside of the U.S.

  • Step 1: Contact Information
  • Step 2: Academic Interests

Are you or your spouse an active or retired U.S. military service member?*

By submitting this form, I provide my signature, expressly consenting to calls, prerecorded messages, messages created by generative artificial intelligence, emails and/or texts regarding my educational options from Walden University (Walden) and its affiliates and contractors using an automated dialing system to the number and email address provided. I understand my consent is not required to enroll at Walden, and that I can withdraw my consent at any time. To request information without consenting, please call 866-492-5336.