TRSA has named its Executive Management Institute (EMI) scholarship in honor of H. Kent Baker, recognizing his five decades of service, leadership and lasting impact on generations of industry leaders.
The H. Kent Baker Executive Management Institute (EMI) Scholarship will cover Year 1 tuition for eligible employees of TRSA member companies attending EMI, the industry’s premier leadership-development program. The scholarship is funded by TRSA’s charitable foundation, the Textile Rental Education and Research Trust (TRERT).
Baker, who passed away Jan. 22, served as an EMI instructor for 49 years and as dean of the program from 1981 until his retirement in 2025. Widely regarded as the heart of EMI, he shaped the program’s philosophy, curriculum and culture, influencing thousands of leaders across the linen, uniform and facility services industry.
“Kent Baker was synonymous with EMI,” said Joseph Ricci, TRSA President & CEO. “His passion for teaching, his ability to connect with students and his unwavering commitment to developing leaders defined the program for nearly half a century. Naming the EMI scholarship in his honor allows more professionals to access the kind of leadership-development experience that has shaped so many of our industry’s top executives.”
The 2026 Executive Management Institute will take place Aug. 9–13 in the Chicago area. The four-year program focuses on strategy, finance, communications and team leadership for owners, executives, next-generation leaders, plant managers and supplier partners.
How to Apply
Applications for the scholarship are due April 17. Eligibility details and application information are available online.
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