Jefferson Baker
Board Member
Jefferson Baker is an Instructor of History at Colorado Mesa University, where he teaches U.S. History, Colorado History, and Public History. He holds a Master of Arts in History with a specialization in Public History and serves on the board of the Museum of Western Colorado. His professional experience includes archival management, museum studies, oral history, historical research, and public history projects through the Veterans Memorial Cemetery of Western Colorado, Colorado Mesa University’s Archives and Special Collections, the Stone County Library archives, and Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield.
A lifelong resident of Grand Junction, Baker developed an appreciation for local history at an early age while visiting local museums and historical sites as his family operated a downtown business. These experiences inspired his commitment to preserving and sharing regional history through education, research, and community engagement.
Beyond the classroom, Baker has a long history of volunteerism and public service. He is a member and Past President of the Grand Junction Lions Club and serves as Vice-President of the Western Colorado All Services Board. His contributions to education, veterans, and community organizations have been recognized with several honors, including Colorado Mesa University’s Club Advisor of the Year (2026), Veteran of the Year (2025), Staff Member of the Year (2025), and the American Red Cross Military Hero Award. He remains dedicated to connecting education, public history, veterans, and community service throughout western Colorado.