The Howard H. Baker Jr. Center for Public Policy is a nonpartisan institute devoted to education and scholarship concerning public policy and civic engagement. Through classes, public lectures, research, and outreach programs, the center aims to provide policy makers, citizens, scholars, and students with the information and skills necessary to work effectively within our political system and to serve our local, state, national, and global communities.
By examining policy and politics through a nonpartisan lens, the Baker Center continues the groundbreaking work of its namesake, Senator Howard H. Baker Jr., who was nicknamed “The Great Reconciliator” for his ability to cross party lines and encourage lawmakers to cooperate on key issues affecting the public good. In the spirit of Baker’s work, the center offers a number of public lectures and programs on topics across the political spectrum, from medical efforts in developing countries to the future of nuclear power. Past speakers include journalist Bob Woodward, progressive political activist Jim Hightower, and four-star general Burwell Bell.
To help promote policy-related scholarship, the Baker Center also has a Modern Political Archive featuring the papers of many Tennessee political leaders, including those of Senator Baker himself, Senator Fred Thompson, and Governor Donald Sundquist. The System Works, a museum located within the Baker Center, also contains a number of historic objects related to the political history of Tennessee and the function of the U.S. government. The exhibit includes a variety of photos taken by Senator Baker that chronicle his life and political career and capture the spirit of the time and country in which he served.
Contact us:
Howard H. Baker Jr. Center for Public Policy
1640 Cumberland Ave.
Knoxville, TN 37996-3340
Phone: 865-974-0931
