1993 ACCOUNTING HALL OF FAME INDUCTION
RICHARD T. BAKER

INTRODUCTION

by Ray J. Groves Chairman, Ernst & Young

Richard T. Baker is best described as a great leader in everything he has done: athletics, business, civic and charitable, education, and professional.

Dick Baker’s leadership is exemplified by his unique ability to urge his colleagues to perform to their highest potential. Characteristic of a good leader, he achieved by providing others the opportunity and encouragement to achieve, and then by giving them the recognition for their accomplishments.

Progressing rapidly in the profession during a period when there were major distinctions between partners and staff, Dick continually strived to reduce these barriers. He was very successful in developing a collegial environment in Ernst & Ernst, where every person was treated with respect for their respective individual abilities regardless of their position. The result was the improved realization of everyone’s talents.

Long a strong proponent of education, Dick led his firm to design, construct, and staff an education center for the professional education of its people, as well as for others in the academic and business community. He also encouraged continuing education throughout a person’s professional career, realizing that rapid changes in the business environment required that each professional’s skills be continually updated and enhanced.

Dick Baker always encouraged the profession to address and resolve its challenges and problems through its own efforts rather than by looking to the government. He believes that the private sector is capable of making even greater contributions to our economy and our well being through utilizing and organizing the many capabilities of its private citizens. Throughout his career, Dick freely gave his personal time and resources to many civic, business, and educational leadership positions.

In summary, Dick is a man who has challenged himself and others to achieve their personal best, while always being fair to and respectful of every person. It is a personal privilege and pleasure to know him and to have worked with him.