Faulkner University

Article by Teri Greene from the Montgomery Advertiser, January 19, 2009.

Martin Luther King's dream of creating positive, lasting change is alive and well.

The ongoing work of the recipients of the 2009 Montgomery Advertiser's King Spirit Honors, a tradition now in its ninth year, represents the vision, dedication and selfless spirit that have become King's legacy.

The honor was created to recognize young adults in the community who show the hope that King's dream will continue for generations to come.

This year, winners include Adrien Adams, a young man who, after being on the receiving end of community generosity, became determined to give back multiple times over, a goal that will carry on into his future career.

"Dr. King has always been a role model of mine," Adams said. "To be recognized as one of the people following in his footsteps only reaffirms to me that I am on the right path to changing the world just as Dr. King did."

Also among the honorees is Jeffrey Baker, a professor at Faulkner University who is determined to see that legal aid is available to people who most desperately need it and are usually least likely to receive it -- and to spread that determination to the young law students he leads.

Then there's John Carter, the young entrepreneur whose success in the professional arena is matched by his commitment to the success of future generations.

Joining them is Kimiya Harris, a young woman moved to turn around the lives of even younger women who are at risk of missing out on promising futures, young women who often find in her the first attentive, compassionate role model in their lives.

These are the young leaders committed to carry on the dream.



Professor Jeffrey Baker

Occupation: Associate professor of law and director of clinical studies at Faulkner University's Jones School of Law; director of Jones Elder Law Clinic and the Family Violence Clinic

Nominated by: Charles I. Nelson, dean and professor of law, Faulkner University's Jones School of Law

Why he nominated him: "Professor Baker is making a difference in our community by taking on unpleasant issues that many would rather turn away from. He gives not only voice and attention to victims, but also hope."

Through his work, Jeffrey Baker ensures that those who are too often overlooked, and often the most in peril, get help.

As director of the Jones Elder Law Clinic and the Family Violence Clinic, he oversees law students who provide free legal counsel to those in need.

The Elder Law Clinic provides representation for low-income, elderly citizens whose legal needs include guardianships, wills, benefit applications, elder abuse protection and medical decision-making.

Similarly, the Family Violence Clinic provides legal service to people who seek protection from domestic violence, which means Baker maintains close contact with an area abuse shelter and directs law students as they litigate pro bono on behalf of people in abusive family relationships. The clinic can obtain orders so that survivors find safety, to protect their children and establish more peaceful lives.

In September, Baker organized "Freedom from Fear: A Candidates Forum on Domestic Violence" in conjunction with area task forces and the Family Sunshine Center. The forum sought to raise awareness of domestic violence crimes and to encouraged elected officials to commit attention and voice to these problems before taking office.

For Baker, these accomplishments are only possible with support from key people in his life.

"I love watching people of faith and goodwill collaborate to get something done," Baker said. "I work with brilliant people at the law school, especially the clinic students, and with many others working in common cause in Montgomery.

"My wife constantly inspires and supports me with her devotion to people in need, and we have an encouraging church family. We are only useful working together, and I am part of a strong, vibrant community."