William Baird spent 28 years at Rhode Island College as a professor, head men’s basketball coach and athletic director. Joining with the other athletic directors, Baird assisted in the formation of the Little East Conference.
Holding a career record of 168-97 (.634) as a coach, Baird was not only successful in winning games, but also increasing the talent of the Anchormen program. His most successful season was in 1968-69 when he led the Anchormen to a 24-2 record, reaching the finals of the NAIA District 32 playoffs and being named New England Small College Coach of the Year by United Press International.
Winning five NESCAC Southern Division Championships, and four conference titles, Baird also led the Anchormen to the NAIA semifinals twice. 1976 saw Baird lead the program to the NCAA Div. III regional title as well as a spot in the quarterfinals of the national tournament. Baird was responsible for many groundbreaking advancements at RIC, which included the transition from the NAIA to NCAA Div. III in 1975, hiring the school’s first full-time athletic trainer as well as hiring the first Associate Athletic Director in charge of women’s sports.
His 1968-69 men’s basketball squad was the second team honored in the RIC athletic department’s Team Hall of Fame in 2009. As a player Baird scored 1,534 points for the University of Rhode Island where he is honored in their Hall of Fame.