Photo of Tracy Rigdon featured with her aunt Lisa as well as a glimpse of Baker College’s Owosso Campus.
“Baker College is a foundation for my life, and I always think about how my aunt taking that step to become a first-generation college graduate changed my life even if I didn’t know it would at the time.”
– Tracey Rigdon ’09, ‘20

Late 80’s
My aunt Lisa was a first-generation college graduate and one of 9 siblings, graduating from Baker College with an associate and bachelor degree. She ultimately worked at Baker College for many years in different capacities.
90’s
Because of my aunt’s experience with Baker College, I (Tracey) changed my college choice to Baker College. I was not only a student—I was also a work-study student.
Before graduating, I worked closely with the Career Resource Center, where they helped me find my first career.
Another family member, Laurie, was able to go to Baker College on a scholarship. She also received two degrees and worked for Baker College for over a decade.
The Aughts
“I (Tracey) left school and decided to work full-time. This led me to apply for a part-time position at Baker College and I have been with Baker College ever since.”
After working for a few years, I made the important decision to return to school part-time on a scholarship. I’m proud to say that I graduated with an associate and bachelor degree, even after I put my education on hold. With some much-needed encouragement along the way, I finally achieved my goal. This made finishing my education even more rewarding.
