M Club Hy Popuch Memorial Service Award

Aaron J. Baker (posthumously)
Germantown, Wis.

The Hy Popuch Award recognizes someone who has demonstrated loyal and dedicated service to Marquette Athletics over a long period of time. That description could not be more fitting for Aaron Baker, who faithfully served Marquette Athletics for 19 years until his death in October 2022.

Aaron joined Marquette in 2002 as an intern in the Athletics marketing department. He returned in 2004 as the coordinator of facilities and event management. Aaron was promoted to assistant athletic director in July 2007.

Aaron served a lead role in several NCAA tournaments and championships, including acting as the tournament manager for the 2017 and 2022 NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Championship First and Second Rounds at the BMO Harris Bradley Center and Fiserv Forum.

Aaron also served as the tournament director for the 2016 NCAA Division I Men's Golf Regional hosted by Blackwolf Run Golf Course. Aaron directed several BIG EAST Conference Championships in women's soccer, volleyball, cross country and the men’s golf team’s Marquette Intercollegiate at Erin Hills and Milwaukee Country Club.

His event management duties included scheduling, set-up, and direct supervision of all home athletic contests as well as the planning and hosting of postseason conference and NCAA Championship events. He also oversaw all department capital projects, directing $38 million in capital improvement for Marquette Athletics since 2013.

Aaron embodied the qualities of Marquette’s mission, exhibiting excellence in his work and setting an example for his colleagues as a servant leader. His behind-the-scenes work set the stage for student-athletes from across the country to compete at the highest level.