As Rice students, we’ve all seen the emails—“Join us for a Baker Institute talk,” “Register now for a Baker policy event.” And yet, from what I have gathered by interacting with other students, Baker Hall remains a bit of a mystery to most students. It's that stately building across from Jones. My guess is, unless you're in a policy-related program, chances are… you haven’t stepped inside?
What is Baker Hall?
Baker Hall is home to the James A. Baker III Institute for Public Policy, one of the nation’s leading nonpartisan think tanks. It brings together scholars, policymakers, and researchers to explore real-world solutions to complex global issues.
The building itself reflects that mission—it’s as its saying echoes, where ideas and action meet. It’s a place where ambassadors give talks, where students attend roundtables with policy experts and foreign ministers, and where current events are debated with academic rigor and global nuance. If Rice’s campus is a microcosm of ideas, Baker Hall is where those ideas meet policy.
Located inside, you will see a head statue of James A. Baker III (former Secretary of State, the one that basically negotiated the end terms of the Cold War). In fact, in testament to that, there is a slab of the Berlin Wall sitting quietly behind the back of the building. Inside of one of the halls you also see him examining the Berlin wall.
After entering the foyer, you step into a bright, open space where many of the Institute’s events, panels, and receptions are held. The door to the left of me in the picture below leads into another, closed off conference room where more private talks are held. In addition, when experts visit, sometimes they use the conference rooms on the second floors to give talks or get briefed by Baker experts.
As you walk through the halls on the first floor, you'll notice a gallery of framed photographs lining the walls—snapshots of history that reflect the caliber of thought leadership that passes through Baker Hall. From heads of state to Nobel laureates, the Institute has hosted some of the most influential figures in global politics and policy.
You’ll see images of President Barack Obama, Secretary John Kerry, and even Nelson Mandela—testament to the Institute, and Rice’s, reach and relevance on the world stage. It’s a quiet but powerful reminder that the work happening here doesn’t just stay within the walls of Rice—it echoes globally.
Specific events, like the recent one on science and technology policy, may even have curated archives or exhibits on display—featuring documents, photographs, and interactive media that highlight the historical or policy significance of the topic.
You’ll also notice cultural artifacts and donated pieces adorning the walls—each with its own story, representing the diverse regions and policy areas the Institute engages with. From diplomatic gifts and historical memorabilia, these items add a sense of global perspective to the space. They serve as subtle reminders that the work done here extends far beyond Rice’s campus, touching international communities and cross-cultural dialogue.
Even if you're not studying policy or political science, the Baker Institute still offers meaningful opportunities for students across disciplines. Whether you're in engineering, business, science, or the humanities, engaging with the Institute can add valuable perspective—and even open unexpected doors.The best part? Events are open to all students (and many to the general public). Here are just a few reasons to stop by:
- Attend high-level speaker events (former diplomats, policy experts, industry experts, etc.).
- Discover internships and research roles that can shape your career path.
- Contribute to a space where academic ideas translate into real-world impact.
The Baker Institute is home to experts leading research across a wide range of policy areas—including energy, science and technology, public finance, education policy, U.S.-China relations, and Middle East studies. Nearly every academic discipline has a policy angle, and if you're curious about how your research can drive real-world impact, getting involved with the Institute could be a great fit.
If you're wondering who to reach out to, have questions about the Institute, or just want to hear more about my experience in the Master of Global Affairs program, I’d be more than happy to chat!
About the author:
Anna Lucas is a Master of Global Affairs candidate at Rice University, with interests in international law, outer space, and emerging technologies. She got her B.Sc. in Biochemistry and Philosophy from Baylor University in Waco, Texas. She will continue her studies at NYU Law in Fall 2025, pursuing a career in international law. Read more.
Further Reading:
Leveraging a Professional Master's for a JD