The Linda R. Baker Teacher Leader Center is a transformative space where educators are empowered to excel throughout their careers. Aligned with our mission to advance comprehensive teacher development and well-being, the center serves as a catalyst for lifelong learning, professional growth, and innovative practices in education. 

We believe that thriving educators create thriving classrooms. That’s why we prioritize the holistic well-being of teachers, fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where both pre-service and in-service educators can explore new strategies, strengthen their leadership skills, and build a vibrant professional community. 

With a commitment to integrity, continuous improvement, and educational excellence, the Baker Teacher Leader Center provides tailored programs that meet the diverse needs of today's educators. Whether you're starting your teaching journey or seeking advanced leadership opportunities, our center equips you with the skills and insights to lead, inspire, and make a lasting impact in education. 

Join us at the Baker Teacher Leader Center, where we unlock potential, nurture well-being, and redefine what it means to be a leader in education. 

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Pre-Service Professional Development Opportunities

Discover everything you need to kickstart your journey as a future educator, including the BTLC professional development certificate, upcoming workshops, and essential resources to support your growth. 

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In-Service Professional Development Opportunities

Explore BTLC’s professional learning opportunities, earn licensure renewal credits, and find ways to share your expertise with fellow educators. 

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Educator Wellness Podcasts

Listen to inspiring episodes focused on educator wellness, with insights to support your well-being—and earn licensure renewal credit for completing a season! 

News

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BTLC Newsletter - May 2025

Read the latest BTLC Newsletter!

Illustration of alumna and donor, Linda R. Baker

A tribute to Linda Baker

Linda R. Baker, College of Education alumna and passionate supporter of education, died Dec. 27 at age 77. Her legacy lives on in the many profound and positive contributions she and her husband Dale have made over the years. The Baker Teacher Leader Center in the UI College of Education is named in her honor.

Upcoming BTLC Events

My Reading Lesson Is Being Observed Today?!

Friday, December 5, 2025 12:00pm to 1:00pm
Virtual

Please register here for My Reading Lesson Is Being Observed Today?!

During this webinar, learn how to build a positive culture around fidelity monitoring with IRRC Research Fellow Seth King.

(BTLC Credits: Dyslexia, IS)

Webinar Details

When: Friday, December 5, Noon-1pm

Where: Online

BTLC Credits: Dyslexia, IS

Presenter: Dr. Seth King, IRRC Research Fellow

Improving Health Outcomes Through Preventing Childhood Obesity Conference  promotional image

Improving Health Outcomes Through Preventing Childhood Obesity Conference

Tuesday, January 13, 2026 8:30am to 4:30pm
Virtual
Join physicians, nurses, public health educators, researchers, teachers, social workers and dietitians in a conversation about the prevention of, and the implications of, childhood obesity!

Join physicians, nurses, public health educators, researchers, teachers, social workers and dietitians in a conversation about the prevention of, and the implications of, childhood obesity!
What is Psychiatry? promotional image

What is Psychiatry?

Wednesday, February 4, 2026 5:00pm to 5:40pm
Virtual
Learn about the field of psychiatry and its place in mental health, the educational and clinical training required to become a psychiatrist, the work a psychiatrist does, and gain a foundational understanding of the conditions psychiatry addresses and the approaches used in treatment.
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Mission and Vision

The Baker Teacher Leader Center (BTLC) strives to offer evidence-based and innovative professional development and career advancement experiences, for both pre – and in-service educators, helping to advance our profession in ways that will affect positive change in our communities across the nation. We aspire to collaborate with content area experts and leaders to solve issues related to the field of education.

BTLC Room Reservations

To help us provide appropriate facilities support, door access, technology assistance, and event planning services, BTLC room reservation requests by UI faculty/staff/students must be submitted at:

Lindquist Room Reservations


For non-university/external individuals or entities, reservation requests must be submitted at:

Reservation Request   

 

For BTLC space inquiries, contact Lisa Bunn at lisa-bunn@uiowa.edu

BTLC Facility Policies and Procedures

Meet Our Staff

Kari Vogelgesang

Director
N120 Lindquist Center
319-335-5348
kari-vogelgesang@uiowa.edu

Mariana Ruggiero Colombo

Associate Director, Professional Development and Online Programming
N110 Lindquist Center
mariana-colombo@uiowa.edu

Lisa Bunn

Administrative Services Specialist
N110 Lindquist Center
lisa-bunn@uiowa.edu