- February 18, 2026
- By Maryland Athletics Staff
A pair of longtime Terps supporters has pledged $2.5 million to University of Maryland Athletics, increasing their total estate commitment to UMD to $10 million.
Additionally, Bob ’66 and Carol Baker have made a lifetime gift of $250,000 in support of the Terrapin Club Impact Fund and the Athletics Facilities Fund.
The estate commitment is designated for two endowed scholarships: one in Athletics and another to provide financial aid to university students hailing from Allegany and Garrett counties in Maryland.
"We love Maryland and we want fans to be able to experience the same joy we've had for more than half a century," the Bakers said. "Our philanthropic support is just one of the ways we're able to pay it forward and ensure Maryland Athletics is successful both now and in the decades to come."
The Bakers attended 571 consecutive football games, home and away, between 1976 and the pandemic. Following the pandemic, they have resumed attending games.
The couple supports several initiatives both within Maryland Athletics and across campus, with most of their philanthropy going toward athletics. They have also created the Bob and Carol Baker Endowed Scholarship for the University of Maryland to support general scholarships.
"Bob and Carol are the epitome of Terps. They are all-in spiritually, emotionally and financially," said Jim Smith, Barry P. Gossett Director of Athletics. "They donate their time, treasure and talent and are truly partners in our collective effort to elevate Maryland Athletics. Their generosity, both through this recent gift and their lifetime of support, is vital in helping us continue to elevate our championship culture."
The Bakers’ gifts support Forward: The University of Maryland Campaign for the Fearless, a $2.5 billion fundraising initiative that aims to expand access to UMD’s world-class education, accelerate groundbreaking research and unite a global community to Do Good. Maryland Athletics aims to raise at least $350 million to elevate a championship culture; empower young people to realize their full potential; mold tomorrow's leaders today; and foster success through community.