Giving Recognition to Outstanding People

Each year honored alumni are recognized for their professional and personal achievements. In addition, an individual is recognized as an "honorary alumnus" for his or her efforts that have benefited Baker. The Alumni Board of Directors gives the awards during the spring Class Reunion event. Nominations are accepted via e-mail at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or by mail.

The following are the award categories.

Alumni Citation Award

Alumni Citation Award recipients have excelled in their professional or personal endeavors since their graduation from Baker University. They are leaders in their specialties and provide an example for current and future alumni to follow. Their Baker pride is demonstrated by their continued support the University financially and through attendance at Baker events. Alumni Citation Awards recognize alumni whose love for and dedication to the University are shown through exceptional service.

Grace Irwin Service Award

This award is reserved for a member of the staff whose support and dedication is of exceptional value with the campus environment. Grace Irwin was a longtime professor and dean of women.

Honorary Alumni

This award recognizes those who, through their tireless efforts in a broad range of endeavors, contribute to the success of the University.

Current & Previous Award Winners

2008

• Alumni Citation – Bary Marquardt, 1966 BU graduate
• Grace Irwin Service Award – Ruth Sarna, Lawrence, Kan., Director of Student Health Services
• Honorary Alumna of the Year – Lee Hedrick, Lawrence, Kan.
• Family of the Year – Gessner Polen Cowherd Family (5 family members with BU graduates ranging from 1961 to 1991 and a current Baker student)

2007

• Alumni Citation – Mel '58 and Alice '61 Hawk, Leawood, Kan.; John W. Bennett '69, Kansas City, Mo.; Mary Kay Brooks '69, Kansas City, Mo.
• Grace Irwin Service Award – Norma Sconce, Baldwin City, Baker Food Service
• Honorary Alumna of the Year – Jan Shore, Overland Park, Kan.

2006

Family of the Year – Driver Family (7 family members with BU graduates ranging from 1961 to 2003)

2005

Family of the Year – Mendoza Family (9 family members with BU graduates ranging from 1935 to 2006)

2004

Family of the Year – Weaver Simmons Schneeberger Family (24 family members with BU graduates ranging from 1935 to 2004)

2002

• Alumnus Citation – Dr. Steve W. Crouch, 1973 BU graduate
• Grace Irwin Service Award – Phyllis Nelson, BU staff
• Honorary Alumna of the Year – Jan Schroeder, Friend of the University
• Family of the Year – O'Bryhim Family (5 family members with BU graduates from 1969 to currently enrolled)