Baker Institute at Rice University: Shaping Public Policy Through Research and Dialogue
The Baker Institute for Public Policy at Rice University stands as a prominent nonpartisan think tank, dedicated to bridging the gap between theoretical concepts and practical applications in public policy. Founded in 1993, the institute serves as a hub for data-driven research on a wide array of foreign and domestic policy issues. By bringing together experts from various fields, including academia, government, media, business, and non-governmental organizations, the Baker Institute fosters informed dialogue and contributes to effective policy-making.
A Hub for Nonpartisan Policy Research
The Baker Institute is committed to providing objective, data-driven analysis on critical policy issues. Its mission is to inform and influence public discourse by offering nonpartisan research and fostering open dialogue. Ranked among the top think tanks in the United States and globally by the University of Pennsylvania's Think Tanks and Civil Societies Program, the Baker Institute has established itself as a leading voice in public policy.
A Legacy of Leadership
Named in honor of James A. Baker III, former United States Secretary of State, Secretary of the Treasury, and White House Chief of Staff, the Baker Institute embodies a commitment to public service and informed policy-making. The institute's leadership is currently headed by Ambassador David M., who guides its diverse research programs and initiatives.
Diverse Research Programs
The Baker Institute houses a variety of centers and programs, each focusing on specific areas of public policy. These include:
The Center for Energy Studies: Founded in October 2012, this center provides policymakers, corporate leaders, and the public with data-driven analysis of issues that influence energy markets. In 2020, it was ranked as a leading energy think tank globally.
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The Center for the Middle East: Renamed the Edward P. Djerejian Center for the Middle East, this center is involved in conflict resolution projects, focusing on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the Levant, and women and human rights in the Middle East. Its work also encompasses U.S. relations in the region, energy in relation to the Middle East, and analysis of the Iran nuclear deal.
The China Studies Program: This program examines the landscape of contemporary China.
The Center for Health and Biosciences: This center focuses on developing health policy recommendations.
The International Economics Program: This program focuses particularly on emerging markets, but also on debt, China’s economic growth, and governing the global economy.
The Latin America Initiative: This initiative has two main projects, the Americas Project and the Vecinos Lecture Series.
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The McNair Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation: This center aims to provide policymakers, scholars, and the general public with comprehensive analyses of the issues that affect entrepreneurship and innovation at federal, state, municipal, and academic levels.
The Mexico Center: This center works to create policy research on issues that affect Mexico and the United States.
The Science and Technology Policy Program: This program focuses on issues that include space, health, medicine, energy and the environment, national and domestic security, science education, and the public’s understanding and trust of science.
The Religion and Public Policy Program: Explores the intersection of faith and policy, addressing issues such as religious freedom, ethics, and the role of faith-based organizations in public life.
The Space Policy Program: Dedicated to analyzing the policy challenges and opportunities presented by space exploration, development, and security.
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The Drug Policy Program: Examines drug policy from a variety of angles, including public health, criminal justice, and economic perspectives.
Events and Public Engagement
The Baker Institute actively engages with the public through a variety of events, including conferences, lectures, and film screenings. These events provide opportunities for experts and the public to engage in meaningful dialogue on critical policy issues.
Raising a Meaningful Voice Gala
The Baker Institute hosts events that convene influential figures and foster discussions on pressing global challenges. The "Raising a Meaningful Voice" themed gala, honoring the Baker Institute, exemplified this commitment. The gala featured renowned statesmen and former Secretaries of State, James A. Baker III and Hillary Rodham Clinton, in conversation moderated by Norah O’Donnell, the Managing Editor and Anchor of CBS Evening News with Norah O’Donnell.
The theme, "Raising a Meaningful Voice," paid tribute to Baker's words and underscored the importance of engaging in meaningful dialogue, especially during challenging times. The event brought together approximately 1,000 people and provided a platform for reflection, conversation, and celebration.
Student Opportunities
The Baker Institute provides a range of opportunities for Rice University students to engage with public policy. These include:
Internship Programs: The Jesse Jones Leadership Center Summer in D.C. Policy Research Internship Program offers Rice University undergraduate students hands-on experience in the world of public policy research and analysis in Washington, D.C. Students secure their internships independently of the institute but with support from experts and staff members.
Baker Institute Student Forum (BISF): BISF increases student engagement with public policy and provides various learning opportunities to Rice students.
Master of Global Affairs Program: This two-year professional master’s degree program, developed by the Baker Institute and Rice’s School of Social Sciences, provides students with a comprehensive understanding of global affairs and prepares them for careers in international policy.
Puentes Consortium International Research Experience: This program offers students the opportunity to develop international research projects.
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