College of Education News

Dr. Lorenzo Baber

Assistant Professor
Department of Educational Organization and Leadership

On the eve of the presidential inauguration, Lorenzo Baber ventured by the Washington mall at 3 a.m. and witnessed people camping out despite the frigid air. Baber returned to the scene six hours later, pocket warmers in hand, and found himself standing next to a couple from Ireland who had flown in just for the experience. Baber's own trip to and from the nation's capitol lasted only 76 hours-26 of which were on the road. "But it was worth every second," he said.

Why did you attend the inauguration?

My mom was a social studies teacher. We always appreciated historical moments. You hear about the march on Washington and other historical movements, so I had to go. Being in, living in history-it was surreal.

How will your attending this event affect your role at the college of education?

"I teach Diversity of Higher Education so there is a natural connection...I felt like the whole experience taught me what we could be when people feel included and connected. As we move beyond rhetoric and a feel-good moment to action and a forward-thinking movement, education is the key. It's exciting to be at a College of Education like Illinois...

What was the highlight of the event?

Everyone was hugging everyone. I thought about my grandfather and great grandfather who couldn't vote, and now a Black man is president. That was the most personal moment for me.

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