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

Illustration of alumna and donor, Linda R. Baker

A tribute to Linda Baker

Monday, January 8, 2024
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

Spring 2025 BTLC/Dyslexia Asynchronous Learning Opportunities

Monday, January 20 to Friday, April 11, 2025 (all day)
Virtual
TEP students in the TLC/Dyslexia and TLC/IS tracks are now able to receive TLC Credit by completing asynchronous workshops offered through the Iowa Reading Research Center. Please use your Uiowa email and address to register for free. COURSE: Dyslexia Overview Module  Please register here. BTLC credit: IS, D (1 Credit) Description: This module is designed to provide an overview of this reading disability, no matter the participant’s prior knowledge of dyslexia. Additional course details and...
Trauma-Informed Relationship Building: Connection Supports Success promotional image

Trauma-Informed Relationship Building: Connection Supports Success

Monday, March 3, 2025 4:00pm to 5:00pm
Virtual
Please register here.  Connection with others and a sense of genuine belonging are essential for student success and engagement. Relationship-building practices are therefore a foundational component within a trauma-informed framework that aims to support students affected by trauma.  Tune into this webinar to review the impacts and prevalence of trauma, explore the importance of connection and belonging in a learning environment, and practice trauma-informed relationship-building strategies...

Colonialism, Imperialism and the Histories that Shaped Us

Wednesday, March 5, 2025 4:00pm to 5:00pm
Virtual
Please register here. BTLC Credit: IS, GO. *This workshop is mandatory for the GO track. Presenter: Maia Sheppard, Assistant Professor of Social Studies Education Description: People, communities, cultures, and countries are more connected with others across the globe than they have ever been. Globalization, however, is not without problems, both ethical and social. This workshop will explore the global and local dimensions of social, historical and cultural issues that shape us, with a...
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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 reservations must be submitted at:

Lindquist Room Reservations

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