Making an Impact Beyond the Lanes

Meet Dominique Walker, Class of 2009

Roger Bacon High School takes immense pride in spotlighting the achievements of its alumni who continue to make a difference in her communities. This month, we are excited to feature Dominique, a dedicated public health professional and accomplished bowling coach, whose journey from the halls of Roger Bacon to the national stage serves as an inspiration to current students and fellow alumni alike.

A Career Dedicated to Public Health and Youth Development

After graduating from Roger Bacon in 2009, Dominique pursued higher education at Morehead State University, earning a Bachelor’s in Health Promotion while competing on the collegiate bowling team. Continuing her academic journey, she obtained a Master’s in Public Health with a concentration in Health Education from Western Kentucky University, supported by the prestigious Minority Assistance Program scholarship.

Dominique's passion for public health led her to the CDC Public Health Associate Program, which provided her first professional opportunity in Illinois. She later joined Hamilton County Public Health and now serves as the Senior Epidemiologist at Cradle Cincinnati, where she works to reduce infant mortality and improve maternal health outcomes in the region. Her expertise and dedication have afforded her opportunities to present at national and local conferences, furthering her impact in the field.

In addition to her work in public health, Dominique has been a force in the world of bowling. As the Head Bowling Coach at St. Ursula Academy since 2019, she has led the team to multiple school records, tournament victories, and three Coach of the Year honors in the GGCL. She also serves on the Ohio Bowling Coaches Association Board and as the Assistant Junior Program and Tournament Director for The National Bowling Association, where she mentors young athletes and provides them with valuable opportunities for personal and academic growth.

The Roger Bacon Influence

Reflecting on her time at Roger Bacon, Dominique credits the school’s leadership opportunities and strong community for shaping her personal and professional growth. Whether serving as a student ambassador, Bowling Team Captain, or Kairos Rector, she learned valuable lessons in communication, teamwork, and self-confidence that continue to guide her today.

Several faculty members left a lasting impression, including Mrs. MD, who instilled a sense of resilience and determination; Coach Ralph Martin, whose mentorship inspired her own coaching career; and the beloved Mr. Roebel, whose infectious positivity and genuine care for students serve as a lifelong reminder of the impact one person can have.

Memories That Last a Lifetime

Among her most cherished memories are the transformative experience of leading a Kairos retreat, the unity displayed by classmates in supporting one another through difficult times, and the heartfelt efforts of the Class of 2009 to ensure every student felt included—such as rallying to nominate a classmate for prom court to encourage her attendance. These moments reinforced the values of compassion, leadership, and lifelong friendship that define the Roger Bacon experience.

Advice for Current Spartans

To current students and recent graduates, Dominique emphasizes the importance of building and maintaining relationships. “One of the best things about Roger Bacon is the connections you make. Stay connected, reach out, and remember that we are all part of the Spartan Army—we are stronger together.”

She also highlights the role of perseverance and open-mindedness in tackling challenges. “Roger Bacon challenged my thinking and shaped my ability to approach problems creatively. In my career, the ability to listen, adapt, and respect different perspectives has been invaluable.”

A Lasting Legacy

From public health advocacy to coaching the next generation of athletes, Dominique exemplifies the values of leadership, service, and community instilled at Roger Bacon. Their journey serves as a testament to the power of education, perseverance, and a strong support system.

We are incredibly proud to celebrate Dominique and look forward to seeing her continued impact in the years to come. Go Spartans!