Emporia State University celebrated the installment of its 19th president with an inauguration ceremony on Thursday.
Kansas native Matthew Baker was celebrated for taking on the role seven months ago with a presentation of artwork by associate professor of design John Decker, performances by various ESU musical ensembles and a note of encouragement from Gov. Laura Kelly.
With nearly three decades of experience in higher education, Baker joined ESU after serving for 33 years at Northwest Missouri State University.
From residence hall director to vice president for student affairs, Baker’s experience runs the gamut. Just like in those roles, Baker said his priority these past several months has been focusing on improving the experience of each ESU student.
As Baker looks ahead to the future, he said preparing current and future students for life after college in a world with ever-changing technological and economic landscapes is top of mind.
For now, Baker said he’s looking forward to connecting with more students across campus and getting them closer to their goals post-grad– a facet of his job Baker said is the best part.
President Baker and his son will participate in ESU’s Phi Delta Theta pole sit to benefit SOS Friday and Saturday.
