Raphaelina Loke Awarded Rosamond Cross Endowed Teaching Chair

The Baldwin School is proud to announce that Raphaelina Loke (P ’06, ’08, ’10), beloved Grade 12 Dean and veteran math teacher, has been awarded the Rosamond Cross Endowed Teaching Chair. This prestigious honor, established in 1988 in memory of Baldwin’s fourth Head of School, Rosamond Cross, recognizes a full-time faculty member who has made an exceptional and lasting impact on the School community or the broader field of education.

 

To those who know her, it’s nearly impossible to imagine Baldwin without Raphaelina. Over her tenure, she has become a foundational figure — deeply respected by colleagues, trusted by students and admired by all for her wisdom, warmth and unwavering dedication. Whether she’s introducing ninth graders to algebra or helping seniors conquer calculus, Raphaelina brings clarity, structure and unmistakable passion to everything she does.

 

Her classroom is known for being both rigorous and encouraging, a space where students say the work is “hard, but in a good way.” She challenges her students without ever letting them feel alone in the process, meeting them before or after school, helping them not only grasp complex mathematical concepts but also build confidence in their own abilities. Her enthusiasm for math is infectious — so much so that even those who once dreaded the subject often leave her class with a newfound appreciation, if not outright love, for it.

 

But Raphaelina’s impact extends far beyond equations and formulas. As the Grade 12 Dean, she has guided countless students through the emotional highs and lows of their senior year with equal parts empathy, humor and unflinching honesty. From senior lounge traditions to commencement preparation, she is the steady hand behind the scenes, ensuring that each student feels seen, supported and celebrated.

 

Among faculty, Raphaelina is a trusted mentor and sounding board — a source of institutional knowledge and grounded advice. Whether it’s a moment of professional uncertainty or a personal crossroads, colleagues know they can turn to her for perspective and support.

 

Raphaelina’s quiet but powerful leadership has touched nearly every part of Baldwin life. She has served as Upper School Dean of Students, advisor to the Asian Student Association, co-chair of the DEI committee and as a faculty representative on the Board of Trustees. Her service is marked by integrity, empathy and an enduring commitment to Baldwin’s mission and students.

In 2021, she was honored with the Reed Fellowship for Excellence in Teaching, recognizing her sustained excellence and innovation in the classroom. The Rosamond Cross Chair is a fitting continuation of that recognition, highlighting a career defined by both passion and impact. Her legacy is one of excellence, compassion and deep community care. We are honored to celebrate her as the newest recipient of the Rosamond Cross Endowed Teaching Chair.

To learn more about Raphaelina and all of Baldwin's esteemed Math faculty members, click here.