Richard T. Walden, MD, DVM,

Richard T. Walden, MD, DVM,

Richard T. Walden, MD, DVM, was born in Casper, Wyoming. Shortly thereafter, his family moved to San Jose, California, where he was raised.

During Dr. Walden's practice as a veterinarian, a young Seventh-day Adventist physician brought his wife's dog for care, providing Dr. Walden's first contact with Adventism. For years, he tried to disprove Adventist beliefs, but somehow always found himself surrounded by Adventists who were always willing to share the Gospel.

Even while he was in the army, he says, "The Lord surrounded me with Adventist soldiers."

Finally, after years of exposure to Adventists and study on his own, Dr. Walden was baptized into the Seventh-day Adventist faith while abroad.

Returning to the United States, he took pre-medical training at La Sierra College [now La Sierra University] in Riverside, and completed medical school at Loma Linda University, graduating in 1952.

During his many years at Loma Linda, he served as professor and chair of the department of preventive medicine, and assistant dean of the School until 1972.

Drs. Lemon and Walden are both viewed as a pioneers of the School, helping to establish the Adventist Health Study and other research into the effects of lifestyle on health and well-being.

For dedication to the ideal of excellence in research and scholarship, the School of Public Health offers Drs. Lemon and Walden the Distinguished Service Awards.