Aaron Baker

Aaron Baker serves as an Associate Professor in the Department of English at Loyola University Chicago, where he contributes to creative writing pedagogy and contemporary poetry scholarship. His academic profile emphasizes mentorship in developing unique literary voices through engagement with established traditions.

His educational foundation includes a BA from Central Washington University and an MFA from the University of Virginia, shaping his approach to poetic craft and instruction. These qualifications anchor his expertise in American literary traditions and creative practice.

Baker's research centers on Poetry Writing and Contemporary American Poetry, exploring the interplay between inherited forms and individual expression. His work investigates rural landscapes, nature imagery, and existential themes through lyrical experimentation, reflecting a commitment to evolving poetic discourse within modern contexts.

His publication history features the award-winning collection Mission Work (2008) alongside numerous poems in premier journals like New England Review and Missouri Review, demonstrating sustained engagement with contemporary poetic forms and thematic depth across two decades.

Notable recognitions include:

• Glasgow/Shenandoah Prize for Emerging Writers (2009)
• Katherine Bakeless Award for a First Book of Poetry (2008)
• Wallace Stegner Fellowship in Creative Writing, Stanford University (2001-2003)

As an active faculty member, Baker maintains a robust creative practice while mentoring emerging writers. His ongoing publications indicate continuous scholarly contribution, though specific current grants or collaborative projects are not detailed in available materials.