News: Hennepin County chief medical examiner receives international recognition

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Media contact: Carolyn Marinan, Communications, 612-348-5969

Hennepin County chief medical examiner receives international recognition

Andrew Baker

Chief Medical Examiner Dr. Andrew Baker recently garnered recognition from the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) for his contributions to the forensic pathology profession. 

AAFS presented Baker with two awards at its scientific meeting this February in Seattle. The organization includes more than 6,600 members representing multiple disciplines and 70 countries.

Baker received the Milton Helpern Award, which recognizes people who have demonstrated lifetime achievement and dedication to the mission of forensic pathology. This award focuses on leadership, service and teaching. 

“I will regard this as not so much an award, but an aspirational charge to continue to serve the interests of the pathology-biology section and the profession of forensic pathology so long as I am able,” Baker said. 

He also received the Kenneth S. Field Award of Appreciation. This award recognizes those who have made a difference in the daily work of a department or AAFS staff member.

“It is [Baker’s] service on the continuing education committee for which I most wish to express my appreciation. Under his guidance, the continuing medical education accreditation process has been significantly streamlined,” said Kimberly Wrasse, executive assistant and continuing education coordinator for AAFS.

Baker heads the medical examiner's office, which investigates all unexpected deaths in Hennepin, Dakota and Scott counties. He also has held numerous leadership positions within AAFS and other forensic organizations.

During his 20 years with the AAFS, he has served on 12 committees and boards. He currently serves as the pathology/biology section director and member of the executive committee. Baker also chairs the Forensic Science Foundation, the educational, scientific and research arm of AAFS.

He has served as the president of the National Association of Medical Examiners and as a forensic pathology committee member of the College of American Pathologists.

Baker is extensively involved with research in his field. He has published his work in 23 papers, 28 abstracts at professional meetings and 2 book chapters.

“I want to thank all of my colleagues at the HCME for all the support over the years. I work with an amazing group of people at all levels in my office,” Baker said. 

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