Lenox Dial Baker, Jr. '63
(Year Awarded--1998)

When Lenox Baker came to Davidson in the fall of 1959, he launched himself early onto a path of life long learning and precocious distinction. Lenox came to Davidson in the footsteps of his brother, Robert '58, and began his study of medicine under the impressive shadow of his father, Dr. Lenox D. Baker, Sr., who was one of the most famous orthopaedic surgeons in the state. But, young Lenox quickly made his mark, excelling academically and becoming rush chairman for Sigma Chi fraternity.

After two years at Davidson, he was accepted into the accelerated medical school program at Johns Hopkins University, where he finished his B.A. degree and then received his M.D. in 1966. At the University of Pittsburgh, he continued his Davidson education under the tutelage of Chief of Surgery Henry T. Bahnson, M.D., '41. Licensed in the states of Maryland and Virginia, and board certified by the American Board of Surgery and the American Board of Thoracic Surgery, Lenox has held professional positions of leadership with several hospitals, including Chief of the Cardiac and Thoracic Surgery division of Sentara Hospitals in Norfolk, Virginia.

He currently is a cardiothoracic surgeon with Mid-Atlantic Cardiothoracic Surgeons, Ltd., Inc., of Norfolk, Virginia. Lenox Baker has been successful beyond the operating room, distinguishing himself through research and the transfer of medical technology to the business world. His medical expertise and business savvy translated into exceptional achievements for IMPRA, Inc., located in Tempe, Arizona. Other corporate appointments include Blue Cross Blue Shield of Virginia and the Tidewater Association of Medical and Surgical Specialists. He also has contributed his time and energy to countless civic and community activities, including the American Heart Association and Norfolk Collegiate School.

Most notable is Lenox Baker's loyalty and dedication to his alma maters. To read the list of ways that Lenox has served Johns Hopkins University makes you dizzy. When he wasn't serving on the Finance Committee or chairing the Development Committee, he was leading a search for a new president or raising millions for the comprehensive campaign. He also found time to serve as the Regional Chair for the Campaign for Davidson in Norfolk and has been a driving force on the Steering Committee for the Life Sciences Project at Davidson.

Because you epitomize lifetime loyalty to your schools, family and community; because you inspire others to your high standards of service; because you make Davidson proud to claim you as her own, the Alumni Association of Davidson College presents you, Lenox Dial Baker, Jr., with this Distinguished Alumnus Award on the occasion of your 35th Reunion.