Catholic High School for Boys College Counselor

Honored with National Fellowship

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (Sept. 03, 2025) — Catholic High School for Boys is proud to announce that Fred Baker, Director of College Counseling, has been selected as a Fellow in the inaugural Designing Your Life Fellowship, sponsored by the Center for Innovation in College Admission within the National Association for College Counseling (NACAC).

“Fred Baker’s selection for his Fellowship is a recognition of his extraordinary contributions to the field of postsecondary advising,” said Dr. Angel Perez, CEO of NACAC. “His work exemplifies the best of our profession, and he was hand-selected because of his leadership, vision and commitment to students.”

The year-long fellowship, led by faculty from Dartmouth College and New York University, is designed to provide school counselors and college advisors with innovative approaches for guiding students toward their life aspirations and careers.

“When I received my Fellowship invitation, I was both humbled and excited,” said Baker. “To be recognized by our country’s highest professional organization is a tremendous honor. Throughout my career, I have taken great pride in helping students discover their best fit, whether that be in college or another pathway. Learning should be a lifelong process, and I am thrilled to share the lessons and advice from this program with my students at Catholic High School for Boys.”

“We are extremely proud of Mr. Baker and the recognition he has received,” said Steve Straessle, Catholic High Head of School. “This honor not only reflects Catholic High’s mission but also highlights his commitment to guiding young men toward their best path forward. Throughout his career, he has profoundly impacted numerous students and families. His talent, dedication and spirit of excellence embody the values we strive for every day at Catholic High.”

Baker is beginning his 10th year at Catholic High and his 25th in the field of education. Prior to joining the school, he served as the Director of Admission and Associate Vice President for Enrollment at Hendrix College. In his current role, he guides students and families through the college admission and financial aid process, ensuring each young man finds the path best suited for his unique skills, talents and aspirations.

About Catholic High School for Boys

Catholic High School for Boys, a college-preparatory high school in Little Rock, was founded by Bishop John B. Morris of the Diocese of Little Rock in 1930 to ensure that boys in the Little Rock area had access to quality Catholic secondary education. Nearly a century later, CHS continues its tradition of aiding boys of all faiths in their spiritual and academic growth. The school continues to provide boys the foundation needed to become outstanding fathers, husbands and leaders in their communities. Learn more at: www.lrchs.org.