Forrest Baird

Professor of Philosophy
Years of Service: 42.5 

What brought you to Whitworth, and what kept you here?

I originally came with my wife as a chaplain's assistant. I stayed because Whitworth was a great place to serve the Kingdom of God.

What is one unforgettable moment you experienced in a class?

Back when we all still used typewriters, I had assigned a paper to my Philosophy of Religion class, and students did not think I had given them enough time to complete the task. When I arrived at class the morning of the due date, half the class was in pajamas, typing away on typewriters (though, of course, they had all actually completed the assignment).

What is one unexpected thing a student has taught you?

Over the years several students have challenged me to acknowledge, repent from, and work toward dismantling my privileges: male privilege, white privilege, heterosexual privilege, cisgender privilege, socioeconomic privilege and educational privilege.

How have you changed since coming to Whitworth?

I have far fewer things of which I am certain – but I believe those few truths much more strongly.  

What parting advice would you offer current students and lifelong learners alike?

Take time to ask the "big" questions of life. Don't always worry about relevance or applicability to a job – there is plenty of time for that. Focus your college years (and beyond) on becoming the kind of person you can be.

What is one Whitworth experience, value or memory that you'll carry with you into retirement?

The amazing friendships with my faculty and staff colleagues. I have been so blessed to be able to work with such incredible people.

What do you look forward to in retirement?

Not grading papers!