DEBBIE BAKER is an Educator of the Heart. She taught high school business classes at North Salem High School for six years before self publishing her book Become to help launch Healing Journeys, a nonprofit organization she is co-creating that provides programs to explore mind, body and spirit. In October 2009, Healing Journeys will offer its new Teaching Hope Professional Development program to educators in Marion and Polk Counties. Baker has been both a student and a teacher all of her life and resides in Salem, Oregon.

Debbie Baker holds a Masters in Education from Oregon State University, a bachelor degree with a major in Business and a minor in Literature from The University of Maryland, and associate degrees in Fashion Merchandising and Retail Management from Spokane Falls Community College. Prior to entering the classroom, she was employed by the University of Maryland, European Division and the Willamette Education Service District Student Leadership Development Center. As a classroom teacher she was recognized as the Outstanding Vocational Teacher of the Year and ING Unsung Hero. In addition, after being nominated by her students, she received the prestigious Crystal Apple Award.