Baker School Student Association
The Baker School Student Association (BSSA) is a student organization fostered by the Howard H. Baker Jr. School of Public Policy and Public Affairs.
The BSSA is committed to the principles of civility and integrity, dedicated to the spirit of public service, and embodies the legacy of Senator Baker. We take pride in representing these values and seek to make them the cornerstones of our community and activities.
The BSSA hosts bi-weekly meetings that range from fun, fellowship-oriented events, like our mystery game of “Who Stole Howard Baker’s Camera,” to more professional networking events, like chatting with local and state political officials over dinner.
One of BSSA’s goals is to better equip its members to handle a career in public service. Whether through professionalism workshops, committee and leadership positions, faculty and staff mentorship, or various opportunities that emerge throughout the year, the BSSA will find tailored career developing opportunities for its associates and provide resources and experiences that make each associate feel more confident entering their field of interest.
Engagement and Leadership Opportunities
BSSA offers multiple ways for you to further your engagement through executive positions and committees. Elections for executive positions are held each spring semester. To learn more about these roles and other BSSA policies, please read our Club Constitution.
Membership Information
Membership is open to all students. A “member” of the BSSA is defined as any student at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville in good academic standing, that has a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5, and that has filled out and submitted the interest form.
Association
“Member” graduates to “associate” when a member attends two thirds (⅔) of the meetings/events over the course of a single semester (with the exception of extenuating circumstances), has filled out an application, and has been approved by the advisor. Graduating to associate status allows members to become eligible for:
- Running for executive office;
- Holding an executive position;
- Being a member of a committee; and
- Professional opportunities, etc.
To express interest in becoming a member, complete this form.
Spring 2026 Meetings
Current Executive Team
Makayla Paris, President
Heather Taylor, Vice President
Jackson Brannon, Secretary
Kripa Patel, Treasurer
Eli Hicks, Communications Officer
Nathan Shroeder, Recruitment Officer
Stay Up-To-Date
This weekly email promotes all events that the Baker School hosts, including BSSA meetings!
Baker Student GroupMe
Receive timely reminders and connect with other BSSA students! Ask to be added at the next meeting.
Being a part of BSSA has allowed me to foster a close-knit and welcoming community here at the Baker School! It provides a safe and low pressure environment for me to build up my professional skills and explore a bunch of new areas of policy that I could be interested in.
Ashley Watermeier
Member
Registered student organizations operate independently of the University of Tennessee, with some receiving guidance and support from university departments. The university encourages student organizations to promote civil and social awareness, but it does not endorse their activities or viewpoints. To view a full list of registered organizations, visit Volink.