Kendall Baker, who served as the president of the University of North Dakota (UND) from 1992 to 1999, passed away on November 27, 2023, in Windsor, Colorado. His tenure at the university was marked by significant challenges, including the devastating Flood of 1997, during which he worked closely with city officials to manage evacuations and provide emergency housing for affected residents.
Baker’s leadership during the flood was notable, as he coordinated efforts with the city of Grand Forks and various partners. A press release from the university highlighted his commitment to the community: “Kendall Baker was not just a leader at UND; he was a devoted member of the Grand Forks community,” it stated.
Reflecting on his time at UND, Baker shared in a 2016 interview with the Grand Forks Herald, “We talk about our years at UND all the time, and we talk about the flood for days.” His enduring affection for the university was evident, as he and his wife, Toby Baker, remained active supporters of its athletic programs and academic initiatives.
Career and Contributions
Baker earned his undergraduate degree in political science from the University of Maryland in 1963. He continued his education at Georgetown University, where he received both a master’s degree and a doctoral degree in 1966 and 1969, respectively. Before his presidency at UND, he held several academic leadership roles, including dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Bowling Green State University from 1982 to 1987, and vice president and provost at Northern Illinois University from 1987 to 1992.
After his time at UND, Baker became the tenth president of Ohio Northern University, serving until 2011. Following his retirement, he and Toby relocated to Windsor, near Denver, Colorado. Baker contributed to the university community even after stepping down, participating in a video produced by UND in October 2020, where he praised the university and its students.
Legacy and Impact
Baker’s influence extended beyond administrative duties. Peter Johnson, director of government relations and public affairs at the UND Alumni Association and Foundation, recounted Baker’s first day in office, which included a directive from the North Dakota governor to cut state agency budgets by 10%. Johnson remarked, “As a consequence, he led the university through its first major budget-cutting process in decades.”
Baker also played a crucial role in developing the Bronson Property, which now hosts the Ralph Engelstad Arena, the Betty Engelstad Sioux Center, the School of Medicine and Health Sciences, and various residential and retail facilities. His vision helped to shape the university’s physical landscape, leaving a lasting legacy.
As the University of North Dakota remembers Baker, his contributions to education, community resilience, and university development will not be forgotten. His dedication to the state of North Dakota and its people remains a significant part of his legacy.
