Dr. Brian Baird, a former U.S. six-term congressman, has been named the next president of Antioch University, Seattle.

Baird will assume his new responsibilities effective July 1 and will succeed Cassandra Manuelito-Kerkvliet, who has led Antioch for the past six years.

"I am convinced the talent, dedication, creativity, and commitment of the community at Antioch University Seattle will allow us to discover new opportunities to move forward stronger than ever," Baird said.

Baird represented Washington's third district from 1999 until 2011.

"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."

During his tenure as Congressman, Baird is credited to have focused on pressing issues such as science and technology, sales tax deductibility, energy, mental health and education among other issues.

He is known and respected for carefully analyzing issues, his good humor and the ability to create bipartisan relationships.

Baird's academic credentials feature a Ph.D. in clinical psychology from the University of Wyoming. He taught at Tacoma's Pacific Lutheran University and University of Washington

After his stint as a Congressman, Baird has served as senior vice president for government affairs at Vigor Industrial, provided training in communication skills and recently served as chair of the Washington State Student Achievement Council.