Louis F. Baird '65 Named 2022 Kelley Medal Recipient

Loyola Blakefield is pleased to announce Louis F. Baird '65 as the 2022 recipient of the Rev. Joseph M. Kelley, S.J., Medal—the highest form of recognition awarded to a Loyola Blakefield alumnus.

Lou’s professional life has been focused on property management and construction. He received his undergraduate degree in Business Administration from Loyola College (now Loyola University) in 1969, followed by a master’s degree in Landscape Architecture at NC State University. For over 16 years, he worked with the Archdiocese of Baltimore where he served with distinction as their first Facility Director, overseeing thousands of building projects. He also earned the Certified Facility Manager credential from the International Facility Management Association.

In 1996, Lou led the formation of the Conference for Catholic Facility Management (CCFM), whose mission is to serve members who work for the Roman Catholic Church in facility management, construction, real estate, and sustainability. Under his leadership, the CCFM has grown as an international organization to include 175 dioceses and religious communities in the United States, Canada, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

In 2013, following his tenure at the Archdiocese, Lou established the consulting firm Baird and Associates to assist Catholic organizations such as the Little Sisters of the Poor, the Franciscan Friars, the Jesuits, and other religious organizations with their facility needs. Lou has also consulted on several projects at Loyola Blakefield, including the Wheeler Hall renovation/addition in 2011. A proud Don, he has generously donated his time and talents to Loyola while serving on the Building and Grounds Committee.

“Lou has always been a proud ambassador for Loyola,” said Anthony Day, President. “His proud allegiance to his alma mater has inspired a lifetime of service that has impacted countless organizations and people across the region. When I think of what it means to embody the characteristics of an Ignatian leader, Lou’s integrity, selflessness, and thoughtfulness all come to mind. We are so very proud to count him as a Loyola Don and true man for others.”

Lou is a former Loyola Blakefield Trustee and serves as Class Captain for the 1965 Dons. He has been an Extraordinary Minister at Immaculate Conception Church for several decades, as well as an active volunteer with Our Daily Bread. His professional and volunteer efforts have made him a fixture in the local Catholic community and a trusted confidant of many pastors, sisters, and congregations.

Lou is also a devoted husband of 51 years to Craiganne, father to Michael '89, Laurie, Katie, and Andrew '04, and doting grandfather of nine. His personal and professional life exemplify the love and support of a happy, grounded family steeped in a firm Catholic foundation.

Lou joins his father, William '29, and brother, Bill '57, as fellow Kelley Medal Recipients.

View highlights from our 2022 Kelley Medal Breakfast here.