Alumnus Barry Baker Establishes Scholarship for Future Kinesiology Students at Troy University

Troy University has long been a foundation for many successful careers, and Barry Baker is a shining example. Having graduated from TROY, Baker is now dedicated to making a difference for future students pursuing degrees in Kinesiology and Health Promotion.

Baker has created The Barry Baker Endowed Scholarship aimed at supporting deserving students within this field. As the owner of Cornerstone Fitness and Wellness in Clanton, Alabama, his career has been deeply rooted in sports medicine, physical therapy, and exercise science.

‘My whole adult life has been in the fields of sports medicine, physical therapy, kinesiology, and exercise science,’ Baker stated. ‘I have a daughter, Anna Kathryn Baker, at TROY now that is in the program. I just wanted to do something in that area for students who are pursuing the path of some sort of allied health field.’

This scholarship prioritizes qualified individuals from Chilton County but is open to all hardworking students. ‘I grew up in Chilton County. I live in Clanton,’ he shared. ‘We have had quite a number of students from this area go to Troy University over the years. However, I wanted to emphasize effort over income or GPA.’

Baker’s commitment to Troy University extends beyond this scholarship. He has actively participated on the advisory board for the College of Health Sciences, believing in the importance of alumni support. ‘I have come to realize the importance of alumni being involved and doing what they can to support and strengthen Troy University,’ he remarked. ‘To me, it is personal. TROY has done so much for me with my education and contacts.’

Despite his legal blindness, Baker’s experience at TROY was overwhelmingly positive, with support from faculty members playing a crucial role in his success. He recalls a specific moment during his senior year that intensified this feeling. ‘During my senior year, I was worried about my grades due to traveling with the baseball team. TROY Chancellor Dr. Hawkins called me to reassure me that my professors would work with me,’ Baker recalled. ‘That phone call really eased my mind.’

Now, he hopes to continue giving back to ensure future students have similar opportunities. ‘As I got older, I wanted to involve myself in helping the college that shaped my life,’ he concluded. ‘I want to support it through the years in any way that I can.’

For more details on establishing a scholarship at Troy University, the Office of Development can be contacted at (334) 670-3297. Recipients of the Barry Baker Endowed Scholarship will be required to express gratitude to the donor and encouraged to participate in the Scholarship Donor Reception.