May 22, 2024

Every year, one undergraduate and one graduate student are selected to represent their peers and address the class by giving a commencement speech. Obadiah Baker is graduating from the EdD in Educational Leadership and Management. Baker is a veteran who served as a civil affairs officer in Afghanistan prior to his studies at Drexel. He received the Fulbright Award that took him to Israel following his award winning documentary, The Shadows Between Us. This year, Obadiah is representing the graduate class of 2024 as he hopes to bring hope and inspire change amongst his peers.

What does it mean to you to be able to address the Class of 2024?
This prestigious opportunity allows me to impart a vision of hope and meaningful change into the next generation of academics and leaders.

How has Drexel prepared you for what is to come in your future?
During my time at Drexel, I had the opportunity to participate in a study abroad program in Israel as a Fulbright Scholar. This experience helped me to prepare for current and future roles as an Army Officer in The Pentagon, specifically in the area of civil-military operations.

What are some of the big lessons you learned, either about yourself or through the coursework, during your time at Drexel?
I have embraced pushing beyond my limitations and personal biases to explore and understand everything the world, whether foreign or domestic, has to offer. The vastness of our world continually inspires me.

Which faculty and/or staff members helped you along your educational journey that you would like to recognize?
Dr. Harriette Rasmussen, Dr. Deanna Hill, and Dr. Kristen Betts.

What is the most important message you want your fellow graduates to take with them as they head out into the world as Drexel graduates?
The key thing I wish to impart to my fellow graduates as they begin their journey as Drexel graduates is the significance of resilience and flexibility. Our capacity to persist and adjust in a dynamic and ever-changing world will be crucial for achieving success and satisfaction.

Obadiah Baker, EdD ‘24
EdD in Educational Leadership and Management
Northrop Grumman Manager, General Manufacturing II and The Joint Staff Information Operations Planner