Team
Welcome, Aniya Baker
Head Women’s Basketball Coach Professor of Business
What is your role at Merced College?
I serve as the Head Women’s Basketball Coach and also teach Business and Management courses at Merced College. In both roles, my focus is on development, accountability, and growth, whether that is with student-athletes on the court or students in the classroom. I take pride in helping young women and students learn how to lead themselves, handle adversity, and commit to their goals. My role goes beyond wins or grades. It is about building discipline, confidence, and long-term habits that carry into life after college.
What part of your job do you enjoy most?
The part I enjoy most is watching people grow, especially when they start to believe in themselves. I enjoy seeing a student or athlete push through something difficult and come out stronger on the other side. Growth is not always easy to spot, but it is meaningful when it happens. Being part of that process, especially for young women who are still finding their voice, is what keeps me invested in the day-to-day.
Tell us about yourself. What brought you to Merced College?
I came to Merced College wanting to serve and make a meaningful impact. My experiences as a collegiate athlete, coach, and professor shaped my passion for education and mentorship. My path has taught me the importance of patience, consistency, and staying grounded in who I am. Those lessons continue to guide how I lead and support students every day.
What do you like to do outside of work?
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with family and close friends and just being present in those moments. I love music, sports, and having time to unwind and recharge. I also enjoy continuing to learn, whether that’s through reading, scripture, listening, or simply picking up something new along the way. Having that balance helps me stay grounded and show up fully for the people around me.
During Black History Month, we celebrate leaders who opened doors for others. Who has influenced or inspired you most, and how does that show up in how you coach and mentor students today?
My parents have been my greatest influence. They instilled discipline, humility, and integrity long before I understood leadership. My father emphasized early that fairness is not guaranteed, but that consistency, effort, and character still matter. My mother instilled gratitude and perspective, reminding me that everything beyond our needs is a blessing. Those lessons guide how I coach and mentor. I challenge students to take ownership of their path while also helping them stay grounded and confident in who they are.
Black History Month is also about community and belonging. How do you help create a team culture where students feel supported, confident, and valued on and off the court?
I focus on building trust by showing up consistently and being transparent. I create space for students to be heard, while also challenging them to grow. Some days that support looks gentle, and other days it requires tough accountability. I believe leadership lives in that balance. My goal is to equip them with the tools, resources, and perspective they need to succeed beyond college, not just during their time on the team.
Looking back on your time here, what’s a change at Merced College that has shaped the way you do your work?
Convocation has been an experience that has shaped how I do my work at Merced College. It is a campus-wide event that brings together faculty, staff, and administration to start off the academic year and share what is ahead. Hearing President Chris Vitelli speak during Convocation is a reminder of why we are here and who we serve. The focus on being student-centered and open to change reinforces that our impact comes from how we choose to show up each day. It sets a tone of purpose and commitment as the year begins.
