In Memoriam

Honoring Dr. Danny Bird, Ph.D.

BY KEVIN CONNOR, CHAIR, DEPARTMENT OF PSYCHOLOGY

Dr. Danny Bird passed away on Aug. 19, 2021. Those of you who knew him remember his unique personality and unconditional love. Dr. Bird started his journey with Liberty as a student in the Ph.D. in Clinical Counseling & Supervision program. He would travel up and stay with our family during those first few intensives for the degree. His family eventually made the decision to move to Lynchburg and write a new chapter in their family history. His family became very involved in our life group and in outreach on Wise Street in Lynchburg. While managing a family, Ph.D. studies, and community service, he also served as an online adjunct, clinical consultant, and teaching assistant for the Department of Psychology. His students enjoyed that he never wore the same tie twice in a semester, and that many of those ties were created by his kids. They also enjoyed his relaxed teaching approach that encouraged conversation and discussion.

Danny and I graduated together and continued to do life together. His family were co-laborers in our community group. He was invested in men’s groups and Bible studies and continued to be an incredible family man and provider. Finally, he was a vocalist. There is no doubt that he entered heaven praising more than he ever did here — which was a lot. We rejoice that he is with our Lord, but we have sorrow for his wife of 25 years and 5 children, 2 of whom are foster children. Although his impact will continue, his presence will be greatly missed.

Honoring Dr. William Scott, Ed.D.

We mourn the passing of a great professor and friend, Dr. William Scott. Dr. Scott’s educational experience began when he received his B.A. in Religion from East Texas Baptist University. At the Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, he earned his Master of Religious Education specializing in Psychology and Counseling. He continued to develop his knowledge when he earned his Doctor of Education in Psychology and Counseling at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. Dr. Scott became a member of the Liberty University faculty in 1994. He was an associate professor who taught courses in crisis intervention, group dynamics, psychology of personality, and abnormal psychology for the Department of Psychology. Dr. Scott was faithful in his duties at Liberty and was one of those who was intentional in the mission. He had a heart for his students to learn and grow. Whenever he was called upon to learn a new system or incorporate new technology, he did his best to seek out help and take classes so that he could continue to serve the Liberty community. Dr. Scott asked questions and continued to be a learner. He was gentle and compassionate, and he carried with him a gentle curiosity that made him loved by many. A leader in the trenches, he was giving and beneficent when there was a need. Our prayer is to be found faithful in all we do, and Dr. Scott modeled this mission. He was faithful to his wife in caring for her, he was faithful to his students in compassion, and he was faithful to the department in service.