As I start to type this tears are falling down my face. If you had asked me whether Suzanne Baker could have been let go with no warning, I would’ve laughed at you and thought that it was a cruel joke. I would have said there is NO way.
Yet somehow after 25 years of dedication we are here. Left with no explanation asking ourselves “why?” Why does this new direction not include Suzanne Baker? A woman whose servant heart and Christian leadership helped shape this organization. Why cut off the heart and soul of this athletic program?
My heart breaks for her team and for the people who will not get to experience her presence in the halls. There have been countless beautiful words spoken all over social media about her, and so many private messages and texts. Our family is so blessed by each post, prayer, email, phone call and text. The words of encouragement have been so uplifting for my mom. Saying that I am proud to call myself her daughter would be an understatement. She has weathered the storm with such grace and integrity. A true class act when most would not have turned to forgiveness or reacted in love. To honor this incredible woman and share the beautiful words many have written, I’ve woven together from these posts 10 examples of her legacy at Capital Christian.
- Each student felt individually loved. She participated in activities for the students that were outside of athletics. She made them feel valued and cherished no matter where they came from or what sport they played. She taught the students that they matter to the Lord regardless of what happened in their past. She showed them the Lord’s heart and isn’t that what being a Christian leader is all about?
- She learned how to use different social media outlets so she could give the athletes shout outs. This provided an avenue for live updates on games which allowed those who could not attend to follow along.
- Bless APS was organized by her. This was done in order to honor the janitorial staff. Each year she collected money from teachers and staff to provide them dinner and Christmas gift cards. This is definitely not in the job description for Athletic Director, but it brought joy to her and blessed them.
- Coach Baker ran and organized Jr. Cougar Basketball (actually began all the Jr. programs). I can tell you from personal coaching experience, this is a LOT of chaos. This program is definitely one that requires patience, but she did it out of the goodness of her heart and never complained. The reward is great for all who are involved. It is incredible to see how interactive the parents can be and how much fun the kids can have learning new skills.
- The AO (athletic office) was a safe place for kids to come and do their homework and hang out together. She never complained about them invading her space or being too loud. She welcomed the chaos and showed them that they were valued and important.
- Suzanne hosted Teacher Appreciation Night. This allowed the student athletes to honor their teachers for all the success they had on and off the court. The teachers were reminded of the impact that they were making on the students and given encouragement.
- AD Suzanne Baker pioneered sports programs that never existed and helped coach them to give other students the opportunity to participate in athletics. She loved mentoring coaches and programs and the success of all programs speaks for itself.
- Suzanne attended events for teachers, students and coaches at school AND outside of the school. The plays, cheer competitions, funerals, graduations, services, birthday parties and special events. She made everyone feel valued and did not show favoritism. Each sports program was equally important to her and she made sure the coaches knew they had her full support when they felt like they were an afterthought.
- Coach Baker is a VERY successful Varsity girls basketball coach winning multiple section championships. Not only did the team win on the court, but she created a family. For years now students from all over come back to Capital to visit and she is their first stop. She has continued the relationship far beyond their high school career. Even after they have left the campus she still is an example of Christ’s love to them and reminds them they are valued.
- Suzanne Baker led with integrity and was so proud to call Capital Christian her home. She loved her job and always went above the call of duty. She radiated the love of Christ and led by His example.
So why are so many people speaking up?
They are speaking up because they are hurt. They are speaking up because her presence mattered. They are speaking up because she impacted their lives. She left a legacy and that is something that no one can take away from her.
“A man’s heart deviseth his way: but the Lord directeth his steps.” – Proverbs 16:9
Many are asking what can be done to help Suzanne during this time. First and foremost, spread the word. Share Suzanne’s story, like the posts and tell others how she may have impacted your life. I could not go without thanking The Sacramento Bee’s Joe Davidson for the beautiful article he wrote honoring her legacy. Thank you to USA Today High School Sports for continuing her story as well. Please continue the prayers because we can feel them and we know the Lord is directing our steps.
New contact email for Suzanne: sswilliebaker10@gmail.com
