This is one of many spotlights about Badin graduates and their successes in life.
Dr. Hallie Baker is an Associate Professor of Health Sciences at Muskingum University, and is the proud author of three books and other publications and she has presented at conferences around the country. She has a Bachelors of Arts in Sociology and Social Work, a Master of Science in Child and Family Studies, and a Ph.D. in Social Gerontology, all from Miami University of Ohio. She is a Licensed Social Worker in the State of Ohio and a Fellow of the Association for Gerontology in Higher Education.
She is most proud of the students that she teaches every day at Muskingum University. She describes herself as ‘a dedicated teaching professor who also serves in the community and within my discipline. I have a passion for learning and teaching and love working with my college students.’ In her spare time she loves to read and work on her flower beds.
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Alumni Spotlight on: HALLIE BAKER '93
What are you passionate about? I am passionate about educating future professionals in the healthcare field. I worked in nursing homes for four years before earning my advanced degrees. I love teaching about health care and older adults (gerontology).
What do you want to be when you grow up? ? Right where I am, though if you had told me I would be here when I was at Badin I would have laughed.
Who inspires you and why? My many professors and teachers in the past. Father Smith who was our priest when I was at Badin stands out. I loved his sense of humor and compassion. He knew how to challenge us, laugh with us, and give a hug when needed. I try to be that for my students to this day.
What led you to this career? I love to serve others and learn. I can tell you that life is an awesome journey.
Favorite Quote? I have two that I live by. First is "When God closes a door, He opens a window" and "teaching is not about filling a bucket, but lighting a fire".
Where have you traveled in the world? I've been all over the US for conferences and presentations. I fell in love with New Orleans after (Hurricane) Katrina and it is one of my favorite spots to travel to.
What is your favorite book? Oh...That's a hard one. There are so many, I'm a total nerd. But "Lives in Time and Place an Invitation to the Life Course: The Problems and Promises of Developmental Science" is a key for me professionally. It shows how we age and grow within biological and environmental/social contexts.
Best advice for Badin students? Always be open to new things and possibilities. Where you think you are going often isn't where you end up, but the ride is worth it!
Best memory as a Badin student? I always remember Father Smith slipping into Mr. Z's classroom and changing letters or words in his class notes on the board for the day. Then laughing as Mr. Z read the notes which often caused embarrassment for him thanks to Father Smith.
If you had $1 million, what would you do with it!? Pay off my debt and start an animal rescue.
Favorite faculty/staff? Father Smith
If you could have lunch with anyone, living or dead, who would you choose? My mother, before her early onset Alzheimer's took away her memory. She never got to know about my accomplishments and I'd love to catch her up on them.
Was there a particular faith related, spiritual experience you had at Badin and how did it impact your life? Religion class really helped me build my code of ethics and morality. Both have served me well throughout my life.
Thinking of yourself, what are you most proud of? That I never give up and continuing to grow and learn new things.
Who is your hero? My parents for how much they have given me and others.
What is one thing that you learned while at Badin that you still use and value today? The strong sense of service to the community and others.
Are YOU our next Spotlight Alumni? Do you know someone that should be? Nomination form is HERE!
