By Cheyene Bialke

As we begin a new year, new beginnings are unfolding at Walker West Music Academy. As of November 21, 2025, we are proud to introduce our new Interim Executive Director, Amy Huerta. While this specific role is new, Amy is a deeply rooted member of our community, having been part of the Walker West family for nearly 20 years.

A Journey Rooted in Community
Amy first connected with Walker West through co-founder Grant West while working for St. Paul Public Schools. At the time, she was developing a strategic plan to bring music into Maxfield Elementary, which led her to meet Mr. West.

“There was this little, teeny, tiny thread that was so wonderful to be a part of,” Amy recalls. “Fast forward a bit—I started coming to performances here, and I knew right then I wanted my children to take lessons at Walker West.” Her children began their own musical journeys, allowing her to build lasting relationships with our staff and teaching artists.

Perspectives from Every Angle
In 2020, Amy’s commitment grew as she joined the Board of Directors, serving as Treasurer and Chair of the Finance Committee during our acquisition of and transition to the 650 Marshall Avenue building. She later served as a consultant, focusing on finance operations and strategy for two years.

“It’s been a fun journey,” Amy says. I’ve seen the organization from so many different angles. I’ve seen it as a parent, a board member, a chair, and a treasurer. I feel I’ve had lots of different touchpoints along the way.”

Leading with a Heart for the Mission
When the Board approached Amy to step in as Interim Executive Director, she felt a mix of “excited nervousness” because of her deep love for the organization.

“I believe so much that this is a powerful legacy organization in the community,” Amy shares. “I have seen the impact it makes on families and kids and the confidence it builds.” She has stepped into this leadership role with an open mind, treating it as a fresh start to help Walker West grow and evolve.

The Joy of Belonging
Despite her many leadership titles, Amy’s favorite role has always been that of a Walker West parent. She fondly remembers a Mother’s Day performance in 2019. “It was in May, if I remember correctly, and it included every single student. Kamonige Strings was leading a lot of it, but every student had a part. It was overwhelmingly touching and there were so many wet eyes. It was beautiful.”

That same sense of connection is what drives her work today. As she works behind the scenes to support our staff, teaching artists, and board members, her goal is to ensure Walker West remains a vibrant place of belonging.

Sharing Our Story
While Amy works behind the scenes to guide our transition, she encourages all of us to be loud and proud about the music and connection happening here every day. To Amy, keeping the impact of Walker West to ourselves is simply not an option.

“It shouldn’t be a secret; there should be no secret,” Amy says. “People should know who we are.”