Wil E. Baker, PhD, EdD, has been named Associate Dean of Graduate Medical Education (GME) for the Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine (ACOM). In this new position, Dr. Baker will lead the development of residency programs throughout Alabama to create additional training opportunities for graduates in the state.

Dr. Baker’s time with the College precedes its existence. His initial vision of a “medical school without walls” later evolved into ACOM as it is known today. Through his role with the Alabama Medical Education Consortium, Dr. Baker developed an extensive network of physicians and healthcare locations that now provides clinical training experiences for ACOM students. He has fostered relationships and promoted a greater understanding of the healthcare needs in Alabama. Dr. Baker’s commitment continues as he transitions his focus to creating new residency programs to further fulfill the College’s mission.

Dr. Baker received his EdD in Research and Psychology from the New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary in 1973. He also holds an Educational Specialist degree from the New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary (1971), a Master of Science from the University of Southern Mississippi (1967), a Master of Theology from the New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary (1967), and a Bachelor of Arts from Howard College (now Samford University) (1956). Dr. Baker served in the United States Marine Corps, active duty, for almost five years as an aviator and continued his service in the Marine Reserves, Air National Guard, and Army National Guard as a pilot (retired, 1994).

Dr. Baker served in the Department of Family Practice at the University of South Alabama, College of Medicine from 1975-1996 as an assistant, associate, and full professor of Behavioral Medicine. During that tenure he also served as assistant to the Vice President of Medical Affairs, and Assistant Dean for Continuing Medical Education. Following retirement from the University of South Alabama, Dr. Baker served as the Project Director for the Alabama Southern Rural Access Program from 1999-2005.

Dr. Baker previously served as Associate Dean of Clinical Resources at ACOM. In addition to his new role at the college, he currently serves as the Executive Director for the Alabama Medical Education Consortium (AMEC).