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Congratulations to Columbia International University alumna Lauren Baker. She is the new general manager of the��, a collegiate-level summer baseball team in Northeastern North Carolina.��

Baker, who graduated from ��ο��Ƶ in 2023 with a bachelor’s degree in��Sport Management, was also a�� standout for the ��ο��Ƶ Rams, winning the 2023�� from the�� (NCCAA). The award is given in honor of legendary NCCAA softball coach Deb Thompson to the��NCCAA softball player��who best reflects Thompson's selfless service and competitive excellence.��

Baker had to overcome challenges early in life. She was born legally blind in her left eye and told she would never be able to play sports. She also nearly drowned while being attacked by a dog that resulted in five plastic surgeries. The series of health issues continued when she learned of a rare heart condition that resulted in open heart surgery, followed by ACL surgery and multiple other health conditions.

But Baker persevered through adversity. In her senior year, Baker led the Rams with a .402 batting average, three home runs, nine stolen bases, and a team low in strikeouts with four across the season. In 2022, after leading her team to a runner-up finish at the NCCAA Softball World Series, Baker was named to the All-Tournament team.

“��ο��Ƶ has played a major role in helping shape who I am,” Baker said. “The Sport Management and��Business department was always very supportive and helpful in whatever I needed or wanted to achieve.”

She especially remembers Sport Management professor��Dr. James Whitaker and former professor Dr. Dave Bireline as “two very positive people in my time at CIU.”

“They not only cared about me as a student, but more importantly as a person.” Baker said. “The people at CIU are some of the most supportive and loving people I have had the privilege of encountering and being alongside. For that I will forever be grateful for my experience and the relationships that were built.”��

Baker also recalls the NCCAA Softball World Series as “the best week of my playing career.”

“The team all leaned on one another and made a run at the end but ultimately ended up coming in second,” Baker said.��

As the general manager for the Edenton Steamers, Baker is back in her home area. But she says “��ο��Ƶ will always hold a special place in my heart.”

“I was able to grow in numerous ways, but most importantly in my relationship with Christ,” Baker said. “I am thankful for each person who played a role in my time there academically, athletically and spiritually.” ��

Higher learning. Deeper faith. A Christ-centered community on campus and online.�����ǰ�����at CIU by contacting Admissions at (803) 807-5024 or��admissions@ciu.edu.���� �� ��