In addition to her rewarding 29-year career at State Farm, Jean Baird '80 enjoys outdoor adventures, including a memorably exciting climb of the daunting Long's Peak in the Colorado Rockies.
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| Your hometown? |
Kewanee, Illinois – the Hog Capital of the World! |
| Why Wesleyan? |
I could pursue all of my academic and athletic interests. The smaller class sizes and the engagement of the professors were very appealing. |
| Your major? |
French, because I was interested in studying abroad. I spent my entire junior year studying at the Université of Paris – Sorbonne. My language skills are still good enough to get by when traveling in France and French-speaking countries. |
| After Wesleyan? |
I did graduate work in linguistics at Georgetown University before beginning my career at State Farm Insurance as a computer programmer. I completed my MBA at the University of Illinois. |
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Biggest thrill or memory?
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At Illinois Wesleyan, my biggest thrill had to be my state victory in the 800-meter run as a sophomore. My best memory is my Sigma Kappa sorority sisters and all of the hilarious times we had together. We could laugh about nothing and just hang out on a Friday night entertaining ourselves. |
| For fun? |
I really do still love to run, so putting on my shoes and getting outside (in any weather) for some fresh air is a must for me. My husband and I also enjoy hiking, golfing, biking and pretty much anything outdoors. We also love to travel to explore new locations. |
| The best? |
Hiking in Colorado, especially Aspen; climbing Camelback Mountain in Phoenix; golfing in Arizona; anything that involves sun and mountains! |
| Favorite book? |
The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls – it makes you realize your family is more normal than you think. |
| Favorite band? |
Candy Dulfer – she wails on the saxophone! |
| Favorite quote? |
“Keep it simple.” — Not sure who said it, but it’s a great reminder for me when life’s pace becomes hectic to just relax and simplify things. |
