Lt. Joseph Baker, an Auburn University doctoral student in the College of Education's Adult Education program, received the Col. Leo A. Codd Memorial Award from the National Defense Industrial Association.  Each year, one junior officer from each of the four branches of service is selected by the NDIA as its top ROTC instructor.  Baker is an assistant professor of naval science in AU's Navy ROTC program.

Nominees are evaluated on their teaching, performance of duties, counseling abilities, university activities and contributions to the ROTC unit.  The award consists of a savings bond, certificate of recognition and complimentary three-year NDIA membership.

Baker, who enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1991, completed a master's degree in adult education at Auburn in 2006.  Baker anticipates graduating in December 2007 and returning to the fleet in January 2008.

"My experiences in adult education have been a major factor in my success here [at Auburn] as an instructor," Baker said.  "I believe what I have learned has enabled me to help my students learn some of the critical skills they will need for success up on commissioning. "

This award is in memory of the late Col. Leo A. Codd, USAR (Ret.) who was instrumental in the development of the American Ordnance Association, which later became the NDIA.