Leslie Baker is an Instructor in the department. Professor Baker obtained a bachelor's and master's degree in Political Science from the University of Arkansas. She also holds a master's degree in Sociology from the University of Arkansas. She is currently ABD at the University of Oklahoma and is completing a dissertation that examines the underrepresentation of women in state legislatures.

Professor Baker teaches two of the core courses in the department - American Government and Introduction to International Relations. She also teaches courses in American Foreign Policy, Public Policy, and Gender and Politics. She currently serves the department as one of the academic advisors.