Dr. Kristin Baker joins UNC-Chapel Hill Board of Trustees

Following a vote by the UNC System Board of Governors, Dr. Kristin Baker ’85, ’89 (MD) has been named to the UNC-Chapel Hill Board of Trustees, filling a vacancy created by the January resignation of John Preyer ’90.

A longtime psychiatrist, Baker practiced in Cabarrus County for 25 years in various settings, including private practice and hospital-based outpatient care with Atrium Health Cabarrus. She also served as Piedmont Behavioral Healthcare’s clinical director.

Baker most recently served in the N.C. General Assembly, where she represented the 82nd House District from 2020-25. A majority House whip, Baker chaired the House Health committee, was vice chair of the Appropriations committee and served on an education committee focusing on universities.

“The first and premier public university in our country, UNC has been foundational for me both personally and professionally,” Baker said. “As a double Tar Heel, N.C. physician and former member of the NCGA, I am keenly aware of the role of our great university in educating our growing populace through changing times. It is a distinct honor to serve on the Board of Trustees as we pursue UNC’s mission to equip the next generation of leaders and enhance the quality of life for all North Carolinians.”

Following her graduation from the UNC School of Medicine, Baker completed a psychiatry residency at the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis and a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at St. Louis Children’s Hospital. She is board-certified in general psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry.

“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Kristin Baker to the UNC-Chapel Hill Board of Trustees. Dr. Baker’s unique and deeply impressive background — spanning decades as a dedicated psychiatrist and impactful legislative leader in the N.C. General Assembly — makes her an invaluable addition to our team,” said BOT Chair Malcolm Turner ’93.

“Throughout her career, she has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to public service and the well-being of North Carolinians. As a proud alumna and a proven leader, Dr. Baker brings a wealth of knowledge in both healthcare and higher education policy that will undoubtedly benefit our board and the entire Carolina community,” Turner added.

Baker previously served on the board of directors for UNC Health and Carolina Alumni, as well as Mental Health America of the Central Carolinas and the Community Free Clinic in Cabarrus County. She’s currently a member of the steering committee of the North Carolina Leadership Forum.

Baker is married to Dr. Scott Baker ’85, ’89 (MD), a physician with Charlotte Radiology, and they have three adult children.