Arnold Baker went from a Texas State football player, to a key leader at Simon Malls, and then to an innovator in the black community in New Orleans. He’s found innovative ways to help his community and make space for minorities in business.

Arnold played football in high school and then at Texas State in the 1980’s. He started as a freshman and realized that he was much smaller than the other players.

“The tackle’s arm was bigger than my leg,” Arnold said.

After watching Texas State win two national championships, he was excited to be on the team. A few years later, he was recruited and thought he might go pro until he got injured multiple times his senior year.

This disappointment led Arnold to a marketing internship that would change his life. As the only black man interning for Simon Malls, he was able to make his way into a new space.

Arnold Baker after being elected Chairman

Throughout his professional life, Arnold’s mission has been to lift up other POC and minorities. He founded the New Orleans Black Chamber of Commerce and was then elected chairman of the National Black Chamber of Commerce.

As an entrepreneur, Arnold’s built countless businesses that most people wouldn’t even think to start. He’s found niches in construction, fruit warehouses, and malls where he can help and start minority-run businesses.

“I recognized I have to lead by example,” Arnold said. “So I started creating businesses.”

With his hand in so many different projects, Arnold has trouble defining just one job title for himself. He runs Baker Concrete, has been the Railroad Commissioner, Airport Commissioner, Port Commissioner, and Chairman of the Port of New Orleans. While the roles have pivoted throughout the decades, Arnold continues his mission to advocate for minorities.

Thank you Arnold for sharing your story with us! You can follow him on Facebook here.

Alumni Profile: Arnold Baker