UTTC on the passing of Phil Baird
Phil Baird March 12, 1955-September 25, 2023
Hearts are heavy at United Tribes Technical College with the passing of Phil Baird, who spent a major share of his professional life on the UTTC campus. Phil came from South Dakota in 1985, as he said, “with my clothes in the back seat and a bronc saddle in the trunk.” He spent nearly 30 years in Bismarck, working with students and instructors, developing new programs, serving the community and state, and pursuing his passion for the Horse Culture.
As UTTC Vice President of Academic, Career & Technical Education, Phil’s priority was to focus on student success. He embraced multi-cultural education, and community and workplace diversity and took up research on tribal college leadership development, bison restoration, and the creation of Tribal Land Grant institutions. He maintained his strong personal interest in western heritage and rodeo (He was a president and co-founder of the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame).
In 2014 he served as Interim UTTC President. It’s not surprising that was the year United Tribes Powwow dancers were invited to kick up their heels and enter an unconventional competition called the “Hat & Boot Dance.”
We had some of Phil’s best years as an educational leader. He inspired us to do our best, following traditions and teachings from within the culture.
The United Tribes campus community sends our deepest condolences to Phil’s family and friends, to the Sinte Gleska University family, and to the entire constellation of Tribal Colleges and Universities.
We all are better for having known Phil Baird. We unite in prayer, holding him warmly in memory, and releasing him safely on his journey. United Tribes Technical College.
The post UTTC on the passing of Phil Baird first appeared on Native Sun News Today.
Shared by: Native Sun News Today
October 11, 2023