Friends of CEC Spotlight: Leigh Anne Baker

The Friends of CEC are a community of monthly donors who sustain CEC’s work year-round. 

1. What is your connection to the field of special education and the Council for Exceptional Children? 

My journey began in speech-language pathology, where I dedicated 20 years to clinical practice before pursuing my Ph.D. in Special Education at UNC Charlotte. My entry into the Council for Exceptional Children was a natural step in my professional evolution, prompted by the recommendation of one of my mentors, Dr. LuAnn Jordan. Since joining, I’ve found a community that perfectly bridges my background in communication disorders with my passion for specialized instruction. 

2. Can you share a moment or experience that shaped your commitment to this work? 

The turning point for me was deeply personal. While I was pouring my energy into supporting the students on my speech-language caseload, I realized my own daughter was struggling to read without receiving the necessary support from her school. Witnessing her fall through the cracks sparked a mission to advocate for the “bubble kids”—those students who desperately need Tier 2 interventions but often don't meet the strict criteria for special education services. This experience shifted my focus toward MTSS, literacy, and teacher preparation; I want to ensure every educator is equipped to catch these students before they fall. 

3. What motivated you to become a Friend of CEC? 

While the complimentary breakfast at the convention is certainly a perk, my real motivation came from seeing a familiar, respected name on the donor list. It piqued my curiosity and led me to explore what it actually meant to be a Friend of CEC.

The program's flexibility moved me —the fact that I could contribute whatever fit my budget. As a doctoral student, I realized the significant savings I was enjoying through my student membership. I decided to reinvest that "difference" back into the organization, turning my savings into a contribution that supports our collective mission.

4. What would you say to someone considering joining the Friends of CEC community?

 I would encourage every member to view their contribution as a tangible vote of confidence in the CEC’s mission and vision. We often think of "philanthropy" as something only for those with large disposable incomes, but there is immense power in collective action. If we all give even a small amount, we create a massive, lasting impact for exceptional children and the professionals who serve them.