An Update from Baker Academic
Earlier this year, Jim Kinney, our longtime executive vice president of academic publishing, announced his retirement from Baker Publishing Group. Kinney joined Baker in 1996, following eight years at Eisenbrauns. He went on to lead Baker Academic for nearly thirty years, building it into one of the leading Christian academic publishers in North America. By nearly every measure, Baker Academic has grown under his leadership and continues to reach new sales heights. A key emphasis for Kinney has been developing leaders throughout the program, and he leaves the company well-positioned for continued success with longtime staff members serving in all departments. In response to Kinney’s departure, two such leaders have been promoted. Brian Bolger will serve as vice president of academic publishing, and Melisa Blok will serve as managing editor. Bolger began at Baker Publishing Group in 1996 and has worked in acquisitions and editorial for Baker Academic and Brazos, most recently as senior managing editor. “Brian has been with us since the beginning of Baker Academic and Brazos Press and has built our outstanding editorial department. I look forward to seeing what he and the rest of my colleagues will accomplish in the years ahead,” said Kinney. As managing editor, Blok will oversee the Baker Academic and Brazos Press project editing department. Blok arrived at Baker in 2016 and has established herself as an excellent editor, a strong project manager, and a key contributor to our program. “We’re extremely grateful to Jim Kinney for his contributions to our company and in particular for his remarkable leadership over Baker Academic and Brazos. The growth and reputation of these programs are a testament to his wise stewardship,” said Jesse Myers, CEO of Baker Publishing Group. “Under Brian’s leadership, I’m confident these teams will continue to build upon that legacy.” Reflecting on his tenure, Kinney added: “This is a bittersweet time for me, but the overwhelming feeling I have is gratitude for the opportunities I’ve been given and the kindness shown to me by so many people along the way. I hope to extend that kindness to others as I embark on a new season of life.”
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