Brian Baird

Katie Scaff
Staff Writer- Puget Sound Business Journal

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Former U.S. congressman Brian Baird has been named the next president of Antioch University Seattle.

Baird, who represented Washington’s third district from 1999 until 2011 and also has a background as an educator and psychologist, will start in his new role at the private liberal arts university July 1.

"We are thrilled to have a leader of Dr. Baird's caliber as president of Antioch University Seattle,” university Chancellor Felice Nudelman said in a statement. “Dr. Baird has a proven track record of progressive leadership. His commitment to values that parallel those of our university and mission is demonstrated by his ongoing advocacy for social, economic and environmental justice.”

While in office, Baird focused his legislative activity on science and technology, sales tax deductibility, energy, mental health and education, among other issues, according to the release.

Baird earned a Ph.D. in clinical psychology from the University of Wyoming, and he worked at Tacoma's Pacific Lutheran University as a faculty member for 12 years and as chair of Pacific Lutheran’s psychology department for two years before running for public office.

Since leaving Congress, Baird has served as senior vice president for government affairs at Vigor Industrial and taught courses at the University of Washington.

Baird will succeed Cassandra Manuelito-Kerkvliet, who has been Antioch’s president for the past six years.