Arkansas Tech University runs deep in Dr. Cathy Baker, professor of geology.
She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in geology from Tech on May 8, 1976, making her part of the last class to graduate under the name Arkansas Polytechnic College and the first class to receive their degrees at John E. Tucker Coliseum.
On Saturday — one day short of the 40th anniversary of her graduation from Arkansas Tech — Baker returned to Tucker Coliseum once more. She did so for spring 2016 commencement ceremonies as the final official act of her 18-year career as a member of the Arkansas Tech faculty.
Baker is more than a former geology student at Arkansas Tech. She is also a former choral student at Tech, so as the 10 a.m. ceremony came to an end, Baker walked to the microphone to lead the thousands in attendance in the singing of the alma mater.
“That’s probably the most people I have ever stood in front of to sing,” said Baker while thinking about the moment in advance. “Lord help me not to cry. I think I’ll be okay, but do not let me cry. It’s a long family tradition here. The roots are deep.”
Those roots extend back to the very beginning of the institution. Her grandfather, George K. Dodd, was president of the first graduating class from what was then known as the Second District Agricultural School. The 1912 Agricola yearbook noted Dodd as “a natural born business man as shown by the way he conducted the affairs of the senior class.”
Other members of her family to graduate from Arkansas Tech include her grandmother, Mrs. George K. Dodd; mother, Mary Dodd Baker; and father, Charles Guy Baker, who earned a two-year degree from Tech and soon after reported for duty as a World War II pilot in Europe.
“When I came back here to teach 18 years ago, I did so because I wanted other students to have the same opportunity that I received,” said Baker. “I wanted to study geology, and Arkansas Tech was the place that allowed me to pursue and attain my dream. There are many students for whom Tech is their chance. It has meant so much to me to give them the same assistance that I received.”
