Los Banos Ag Booster President Don Baker joins the Pacheco and Los Banos FFA advisors for a group photo.
In agricultural education, service isn’t just a motto; it’s an action. Don Baker, president of the Los Banos Ag Boosters, embodies the whole spirit of the FFA motto, which is “Learning to Do, Doing to Learn, Earning to Live, Living to Serve.”
For more than two decades, Baker has helped turn community support into student opportunity, working alongside fellow Booster members and board leaders to turn fundraisers into fuel for student scholarships, chapter expenses and national trips. His ongoing presence and hands-on leadership have made him a cornerstone of a team committed to lasting impact.
A Spark That Lit a Drive
Though never an FFA member himself, Baker is no stranger to the organization. “My daughters were in FFA,” he says. “I saw firsthand how the program changes students for the better.” That key experience ignited a lifelong commitment to youth development, agricultural education and community involvement.
Baker joined the Los Banos Ag Boosters more than 20 years ago, and quickly became a trusted leader within the group. Working alongside fellow board members and volunteers, he has supported countless events. From chapter dinners to Ag Booster fundraisers, these events unite the community and directly fund student experiences.
“It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” he says. “And it’s all about making connections and giving back.”
Baker’s leadership has helped grow the Boosters’ financial standing, allowing them to support more students year after year. However, for Baker, the true reward lies in mentorship. He encourages students to get involved and try new things, believing that FFA offers something for everyone.
“It brings the light out of students,” he says. “It develops their potential and changes them for the better.”
Los Banos Ag Booster President Don Baker.
Leadership That Doesn’t Stop
After retiring five years ago, Baker returned, driven by the belief that every bit of support matters. “If we all support even a little bit, the more we support our students,” he says. His vision remains clear: to make things easier for students and offer them as many opportunities as possible.
Baker’s ultimate goal is to give back to students, and he urges other adults to step up. “We need more involvement across all schools,” he said. For Mr. Baker, “Living to Serve” means showing up, sharing knowledge and demonstrating care. It’s a value that has shaped his legacy and continues to shine through every student he has helped.
In a world where service often goes unseen, Baker reminds us that true leadership is caring, consistent and deeply rooted in purpose.
