2023 Most Influential Women: Leisha Baker

True to her mission as an educator, Leisha Baker turned a deeply personal challenge into a chance to learn and grow.

Baker says when she developed alopecia universalis and lost all her hair she went through “a life-changing identity crisis that taught me that appearance does not define who we are.”

That school year, she had a student who had the same condition.

“I seized the opportunity to support not only that student but also my entire class in understanding the value of accepting and celebrating each other’s differences,” she says. “We do not typically get to choose our challenges; we only get to choose our response. Through my example and guidance, this class became a close-knit community of learners who felt safe and empowered to embrace their individuality.”

After earning her bachelor’s degree in education from University of Memphis in 2009, Baker taught fifth grade at Disney Elementary School until 2016. She left to focus on an educational franchise, Club Z! In-Home Tutoring Services, she and her husband Kevin opened in 2011. Today, she leads a team of over 50 tutors to provide customized training to area students.

“One of my primary objectives is to help students reach their full potential by building their confidence and fostering ownership of their learning journey,” she says. “Whether in the classroom or as a business owner, I strive to create an environment where people feel heard, supported and valued for their unique strengths.”

Her work has gained national recognition. In 2018, Baker says their Club Z! franchise was honored by the company with the President’s Circle Award, ranking it among the top 10% of over 400 franchises in the U.S. and Canada.

“This recognition is a testament to our dedication and commitment to excellence, as evidenced by the remarkable growth of our business and the high level of customer satisfaction we consistently deliver,” Baker says, adding the award led her to serve on the company’s Franchise Advisory Committee to mentor new and struggling franchise owners.

Her company has also been recognized twice with the local Better Business Bureau Torch Award, in 2018 and this year. She says honorees must exhibit commitment to high ethical standards and outstanding service.

Baker says in all she does, she’s motivated by influencing the success of others. She serves on the board of the local Association of Women in Communications chapter and volunteers with the Down Syndrome Group of the Ozarks and with field trips by area fifth graders to the Gray Campbell Farmstead.

Baker says it’s people who give her life meaning, whether that’s her students or her employees. And sometimes, she says, those are one in the same.

“Many of (my students) have returned as tutors, eager to give back and provide the same support they once received,” she says. “Witnessing the success stories of countless former students who have grown into teachers, doctors, attorneys, business owners and professionals in various fields, fills me with immense pride. Knowing that I played a part, however small, in empowering them to achieve their goals and make a positive impact on the world is truly rewarding.”