Baker Institute for Public Policy

The Consular Corps of Houston has enjoyed a long-standing relationship with the Baker Institute. Named for Secretary James A. Baker III, the institute honors a leader who served 12 years as one of Washington’s most influential non-elected officials, including as President Ronald Reagan’s chief of staff and treasury secretary, and as secretary of state under President George H.W. Bush.

At Rice University, Baker envisioned a public policy institute where “statesmen and scholars work in an atmosphere of intellectual excellence and strict nonpartisanship to develop fresh, informed approaches to policy,” while students gain valuable experience by assisting in research and participating in the dialogue, going on to be better scholars and leaders as a result.

More than 200 Baker Institute fellows, scholars and researchers study a wide range of foreign and domestic policy issues; their Center for Energy Studies consistently ranks as the world’s leading energy think tank. And students, the next generation of Decision-makers, are enriched by internships in Houston, Washington, D.C., and beyond.

The Baker Institute maintains it commitment to independence, accuracy and civility remains unchanged. “We will continue to seek new opportunities to make a difference in guiding policymaking and political dialogue through trustworthy research,” Secretary Baker said.