Royal Oak, MI — Baker College has been selected as a featured higher education voice in AMERICA 250, a national documentary series debuting July 4, 2026 on USAtoday.com, serving as an institution helping shape the future of education as the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary.
The series, which will explore the people, organizations, and ideas shaping America’s future, will include Baker College in a segment focused on technology and artificial intelligence integration in higher education. The college was invited to participate based on its long-standing commitment to innovation, workforce-focused learning, and student-centered educational models.
Produced as part of a yearlong national initiative commemorating America’s semiquincentennial, AMERICA 250 will feature 25 documentary-style episodes examining how industries across the country are adapting to meet emerging challenges and opportunities.
“As our nation celebrates 250 years of progress and possibility, being selected to participate in this project highlights the important role higher education plays in shaping the future,” said Dr. Jacqui Spicer, President of Baker College. “For more than a century, Baker College has evolved alongside the changing needs of students, employers, and communities, but our purpose has never changed. We remain committed to putting students at the center of everything we do and helping them build meaningful futures through education.”
Founded in 1911, Baker College has consistently been an early adopter of technologies and approaches that expand educational opportunity. The institution launched online learning programs in 1994, developed flexible learning pathways for working adults and nontraditional students, and continues to integrate emerging technologies into the classroom through initiatives such as virtual reality healthcare simulations, cybersecurity training environments, and AI-supported learning resources.
The documentary will also highlight broader themes shaping the future of higher education, including workforce readiness, affordability, access, and institutional transformation. As industries continue to evolve, Baker College has focused on creating programs aligned with employer needs while providing students with the support and flexibility necessary to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
The recognition places Baker College alongside organizations from across the nation contributing to innovation and progress during a pivotal moment in American history. As the country celebrates 250 years of achievement and advancement, the series will examine how institutions are preparing future generations to lead, innovate, and contribute to their communities.
The documentary segment featuring Baker College can be viewed here on USAtoday.com in July 2026 and will be supported by a national, multi-channel promotional campaign.
“The story of America has always been shaped by people who were given the opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute,” said Spicer. “At Baker College, we are proud to continue that tradition by helping students realize their potential and preparing them to make an impact in their professions, their communities, and contribute to America’s future.”
The documentary can also be viewed on YouTube and via the ACUMEN Media site.
Baker College is an independent, private, non-profit institution that grants associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees on six campuses across Michigan and online. Founded in 1911, the institution’s mission is to provide an inclusive, innovative, and transformative educational experience, driven by a student-first philosophy. Learn more at baker.edu and follow on X, Meta, and Instagram.