By Deborah Walker

SALISBURY, N.C. – As Livingstone College continues its focus on student success and engagement, the College welcomes Jalen R. Baker as Associate Vice President of Student Engagement, bringing a strong background in student affairs, leadership development, and retention-focused programming. His appointment reflects Livingstone’s ongoing commitment to enhancing the student experience and advancing initiatives that support academic persistence, leadership, and holistic development. 

At Livingstone College, Baker will enhance engagement strategies, build supportive learning communities, and advance retention efforts that promote academic and personal success for students. Baker brings experience across multiple higher education institutions, including prior roles at Shaw University, Saint Augustine’s University, Guilford College, and North Carolina Central University. His professional background spans from student engagement to student success, with a proven record of leading impactful programming and campus-wide initiatives.  

Throughout his career, Baker has received campus and national recognition for his leadership, including Advisor of the Year honors and the 2018 Spectacular Magazine Emerging Leader of the Year Award. He is the founder of the Jalen R. Baker Scholarship and the creator of the Black Excellence Gala, initiatives centered on access, excellence, and community impact, and is an active member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. Baker holds a Bachelor of Science in Childhood Education and Family Relations and a Master of Public Administration from North Carolina Central University. 

With this appointment, Livingstone College looks ahead with optimism and purpose. The addition of Baker reflects the College’s continued confidence in leadership that centers student success, engagement, and holistic development.