The majestic, four-building L. T. Walker Physical Education and Recreation Complex, completed in 1985, and extending along
the sloping hills of North Carolina Central University, symbolizes one of the pinnacles in the proud history of the department: a
history that spans a half century and five chairmen.
Efforts to establish a department of physical education began around 1937 with William F. Burghart and John B.
McLendon. Initially, a minor in physical education was developed, and in 1943 the first major program was instituted.