Loyola Athletics Pursuit of Excellence Spotlight: Kyli Baker

NEW ORLEANS – Loyola University New Orleans Athletics is proud to recognize junior women's track and field student-athlete Kyli Baker as the latest feature in the Pursuit of Excellence Spotlight, a series that highlights Wolf Pack student-athletes who embody Jesuit values through leadership, service, and commitment to excellence.
 

"Kyli is the consummate teammate who helps elevate everyone in her orbit, both on and off the track," her head coach, Geoff Masanet, said. "We, and the greater Loyola community, are so fortunate to have her as part of our team and University."
 

Baker's impact on Loyola Athletics was recently recognized when she earned the Athletics Department's Pursuit of Excellence Award, an honor that capped off a memorable junior year both on and off the track.
 

"Winning this award really put the cherry on top of my junior year," Baker said. "I surprised myself by accomplishing so many things this season, let alone this school year, and I'm overly proud of myself. Receiving the award was just a physical representation of acknowledgment of my success this year."
 

A native of Miami, Florida, Baker transferred to Loyola after previously attending an HBCU, following a coach who believed in her ability to grow and reach another level as a student-athlete.
 

"What drew me to Loyola was the fact that my track coach believed that he could improve my talents," Baker said. "He and I both transferred from my HBCU to Loyola at the same time, so I really followed him here. Then the location of the school really caught my eye because it was in the South. Being from Miami, Florida, and going to school in the Midwest initially, when I was looking for schools to transfer to, I knew it had to be a school in the South."
 

Baker is pursuing a degree in criminal justice and hopes to continue serving others after graduation through a career in law enforcement.
 

"Post-graduation, I plan to join a police department and become an officer, and then transition into a domestic violence detective," Baker said.
 

As a sprinter competing in the 100 meter and 200 meter events, Baker understands the discipline and focus required to compete at a high level while balancing the responsibilities of being a student-athlete.
 

"Being a Loyola student-athlete means I'm always pushing myself in two lanes: academically and on the track," Baker said. "As a 100 and 200 runner, there's no room to ease into anything. I have to be locked in, disciplined, and consistent every day, whether that's in practice, meets, or the classroom.
 

"It's also about representing something bigger than myself," she continued. "Every time I step on the track, I'm representing my school and my team, so I take pride in doing things the right way, which is why I always throw up the Wolf Pack hand sign in every picture at the meets. Track has taught me how to handle pressure, stay focused, and bounce back quickly because in sprinting, one small mistake can cost you the race."
 

Beyond athletics, Baker has established herself as one of Loyola's most active student leaders. Her campus involvement includes the Black Student Union, Caribbean and African Student Association, LUCAP, SAAC, Omicron Delta Kappa, National Student Leadership Society, TRIO, and Federal Work Study. She also serves as the founding president and charter member of the Loyola chapter of J.E.W.E.L.S., INC.
 

Baker credits Jesuit values with shaping the way she approaches leadership, teamwork, and daily life.
 

"I apply 'pursuing excellence' by staying disciplined in the small things every day on the track and in the classroom," Baker said. "As a sprinter, I know every detail matters, so I focus on being consistent and always improving.
 

"'Living a life with and for others' shows up in how I support my teammates. Even though I run individual events, I'm part of a team, so I try to bring energy, encourage others, and be someone they can rely on. For me, it's about pushing myself while also contributing to something bigger than just me."
 

Baker's confidence and vision for the future extend beyond her own accomplishments, as she continues to push those around her toward greater success.
 

"I am claiming it now," Baker said. "The 2026-27 women's 4x100-meter relay WILL qualify for the NAIA National Championships next outdoor season. Stamp it."
 

Through her leadership, service, and determination, Baker continues to embody the spirit of Loyola Athletics and the mission of the Pursuit of Excellence Spotlight.
 

The Pursuit of Excellence Spotlight recognizes Loyola student-athletes who strive to live out Jesuit values by using their talents to serve, inspire, and make a meaningful impact in their communities.
 

Please submit your nominees with specific examples of how your nominee exemplifies these characteristics - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfLSU9L3RIq7rytJzmj9_XQZa8knsut8u96cb_jZ_vpMgppFw/viewform?usp=header
 

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