Baker University Chair of Graduate Studies Dr. Kirk Haskins selected to participate in prominent leadership training program

Baker University, a premier private university rooted in liberal arts education and academic excellence, is pleased to announce that Dr. Kirk Haskins, chair of graduate programs for the Baker University School of Professional and Graduate Students (SPGS), has been selected as a 2025 Fellow in the Bowhay Institute for Legislative Leadership Development (BILLD) premier training program. Dr. Haskins also serves as Kansas Representative for the 53rd District and is one of just 38 lawmakers chosen to participate in the annual leadership training program for promising Midwest leaders.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to learn alongside other legislators from across the Midwest,” Dr. Haskins said. “BILLD is one of the most prominent programs in the country – offering a unique educational experience and leadership development – and I look forward to gaining knowledge that I can apply not only as a representative of the state of Kansas, but also as a member of the Baker University leadership team and throughout the courses I teach.”

Dr. Haskins will meet with fellow lawmakers from Kansas and 10 other Midwest states and three Canadian provinces this August in Madison, Wis., for The Council of State Government’s 30th annual BILLD program. The program was founded in 1995 to help new legislators who are in their first four years of service meet the demands of increased policy responsibility, become effective leaders, informed decisionmakers and astute policy analysts, and explore issues with nationally renowned scholars, professional development experts and legislative leaders. Lawmakers are chosen by a steering committee through a competitive, nonpartisan selection process.

As chair of graduate programs, Dr. Haskins leads an esteemed school with working professionals from diverse disciplines. Baker University’s SPGS has over 30 years of history servicing students in the Kansas City region and beyond developing flexible, accelerated degree programs and fostering partnerships with area businesses and organizations to ensure students receive innovative educational programs that meet local workforce needs.

“We are so proud of Dr. Haskins selection to the 2025 BILLD program and look forward to supporting his continued accomplishments as he builds upon his outstanding leadership skills,” said Dr. Matthew R. Bice, Provost & Vice President of Academic Affairs. “We are grateful for Dr. Haskins’ service to Kansas and dedication to serving Baker University students.”

Baker University’s graduate programs have a rich history in the region. From pioneering online education to evolving programming to meet the current needs of students, Baker University’s graduate programs specialize in concentration areas that directly connect with industry professions. The school provides a unique blend of traditional academic faculty as well as industry leaders and executive professionals to best prepare students for an impactful workforce experience.