- What is the Baker Institute?
The James A. Baker III Institute for Public Policy is one of the nation’s most widely recognized and respected public policy think tanks, and an integral part of Rice University. The institute’s fellows and scholars do research on pressing domestic and foreign policy issues, collaborating with experts from academia, government, the media, business, and nongovernmental and private organizations. For more information, visit the About the Institute page.
- What is the Baker Institute’s relationship with Rice University?
The Baker Institute is located on the Rice University campus in James A. Baker III Hall. As an integral part of Rice University, one of the nation's most distinguished institutions of higher education, the institute has a strong track record of achievement based on the work of the institute’s endowed fellows and scholars and Rice University scholars. Though the institute does not grant degrees, the institute does offer internships to Rice students, providing unique educational opportunities and hands-on experience in the broad field of policy.
- How do I get to the Baker Institute?
For driving directions to the Rice University, visit the Contact page.
- Does the Baker Institute offer courses?
The Baker Institute offers an undergraduate comprehensive public policy course in the spring. Our founding director and many of our fellows teach courses at Rice available to Rice University students only. You can view a list of courses taught by our fellows and scholars.
- Are there volunteer opportunities at the Baker Institute?
The Baker Institute does not have any volunteer opportunities at this time.
- How can I apply for or obtain a job at the Baker Institute?
When openings for staff positions are available, they are posted through the Rice University Office of Human Resources. Applications for staff positions cannot be accepted by the Baker Institute and must be submitted through the Office of Human Resources. Fellow and scholar positions are closely tied to specific research programs of the Baker Institute and are used to bring in experience and expertise that are not available among the Rice faculty. When openings occur, they are advertised in appropriate venues. The Baker Institute often has Rice students working part-time as office assistants. These jobs are posted and advertised on campus.
- Does the Baker Institute offer student internships?
The Baker Institute offers several administrative and research student internships that are open to Rice undergraduate and graduate students. Please see our Student Opportunities page for more information.
Support and Donations
- Where does Baker Institute support come from?
In fiscal year 2015, Baker Institute support consisted of 38 percent from endowments; 58 percent percent from corporate, foundation and individual contributions; and 4 percent from Rice University.
- How can I support the institute?
There are many ways you can support the institute; please see our support page for information on all the ways you can donate.
- What is the Roundtable?
The Baker Institute Roundtable is the institute’s premier annual support group for individuals. Through Roundtable membership, the institute fosters community engagement in some of the most pressing public policy challenges of our time. Membership includes invitations to a number of exclusive events throughout the year. There are different membership levels, and each membership entitles two people to the benefits of membership. To learn more about the Roundtable or to join, visit our Roundtable page. For young professionals and Rice University employees under the age of 45, visit our Associate Roundtable page.
- Are online gifts to the institute secure?
Yes. Online donations are handled by Rice’s TouchNet system on behalf of the Baker Institute, and all information you provide as part of the transaction is encrypted to prevent identity theft or interception.
- Are my donations tax deductible?
Yes. The Baker Institute is part of William Marsh Rice University, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization (Tax ID: 74-1109620). Contributions by U.S. citizens and companies are tax deductible as allowed by law.The Baker Institute Roundtable is a giving society that includes limited nondeductible benefits. Thus, a portion of your contribution is not deductible. Please visit the Roundtable and Associate Roundtable pages to see the maximum allowable deductions per membership level.
- Where can I get more information on donations?
For Roundtable membership, corporate support, major gifts, planned giving and endowment opportunities, please contact the Baker Institute development office at roundtable@rice.edu.
Events and Media
- How can I receive an invitation to a Baker Institute event?
Rice students, faculty, staff and administrators are invited to all audience events. The members of the Baker Institute Roundtable, an annual giving support group, are also invited to all Baker Institute audience events. For more information on the Roundtable, please visit the Roundtable section of the website. Specific requests for invitations will be accommodated as available seating permits.
- Do you video archive all events?
Most but not all institute discussions and events are broadcast live on our website and digitally archived. Event videos are posted on the associated event Web pages and on the Baker Institute YouTube account.
- How can I arrange an interview or media appearance with a Baker Institute staff member or researcher?
Members of the media wishing to talk to Baker Institute policy fellows or researchers should contact Jeff Falk, Rice University associate director for national media, at 713.348.6775 or jfalk@rice.edu. National media should contact David Ruth, Rice University director for national media, at 713.348.6327 or druth@rice.edu.
- May I use information from Baker Institute publications? May I quote Baker Institute publications?
Yes. We want our research to reach the widest possible audience. We only ask that you provide the proper citation reference to the Baker Institute and/or a specific author as the source of the information.
- How do I acquire or use photos from institute events?
Contact bipp@rice.edu or 713.348.4683.
- Who can I speak to about the history or archives of Mr. Baker or the Baker Institute for research purposes?
Contact bipp@rice.edu or 713.348.4683.
Connect With the Baker Institute
- How can I stay up-to-date on the latest Baker Institute news, publications and events?
You can stay connected with the Baker Institute by following us on Twitter, liking our Facebook page or joining our LinkedIn group. You can also sign up for the Baker Institute Update, the institute’s biweekly email newsletter highlighting the latest research and news.
- May I receive the Baker Institute Update email newsletter if I am not a donor?
Yes, you can sign up or confirm your name and email address here to receive the latest news about our events and research.
- How can I submit an address change or request to be removed from a list?
Please send an electronic request to roundtable@rice.edu. Your change will be effective for the next mailing.
- Will my name and address be sold to other solicitors?
No. The Baker Institute does not sell or provide any personal information about our members or donors to any third party.
Have we missed a question?
Email the institute at bipp@rice.edu.