Price, Rhinos, and Orangutans

By Nat Forsythe 

Everyone has that niche interest that they don't widely discuss. Think about it, we all have one. From the Russian Revolution to the Louvre to how ladybugs contract and release their wings, we all have an interest that we keep stored away in our minds to unlock and learn more about on a rainy day, or anytime someone asks about a special interest, and we can blab about it for ages.

I had the pleasure of talking to our very own Shawn Price, more commonly referred to as  Mr. Price, who shared his interest in rhinos and orangutans. We were able to have a conversation about the topic, and his deep devotion to the animals is truly something of poetry. When asked about his fascination with these beautiful creatures, Price was quick to reply, ¨they [rhinos] don't look like they should exist, but they do. They shouldn't exist in 2025, but in history.¨ What about orangutans? ¨Have you ever looked an orangutan in the eyes? There is something about looking at an animal that could rip your face off in the eyes, but they don't do anything. There is so much more than just an animal in that face.¨ In addition to this, Price would also like to leave with a quote of wisdom, ¨Free all orangutans¨. 

Although the snippets of conversation provided don't show his true passion, Price shares a love for these animals in a way that I haven't seen since the kindness of Jane Goodall. I will not be shocked to find out that the Price Primate and Rhinocerotidae Foundation will start in the next 5-10 years to truly care for and protect these animals in particular. 

As a student, hearing about my teachers' interests that don't relate to the classroom in any way makes them more human. Many students, myself included, struggle to humanize our teachers because they are only seen as one thing: educators and authoritative figures. While that's all grand and good, no one connects with one-dimensional ideas, concepts, or people with one purpose; we connect with depth, devotion to a craft, and complexity. Seeing our teachers have passions outside of the subjects they spend 7 hours talking about creates an understanding and connection that can not be solely found in the pages of Shakespeare or the theory of relativity. 

This also helps students to be more involved in school and learning because we realize there is a person and life behind the assignments they give us. Teachers struggle, get tired, have rough days, get into bad patches, forget to eat from lack of time, and the best teachers don't let their students know any of this. Teachers are our future reflected in us, and as someone who is going into education with a minor in communications because of Price, my future looks bright. 

Price would like all to know that if you ever find an Orangutan or Rhino in need, feel free to drop them off at Price's house/backyard. You will be fulfilling a teacher's lifelong dream and filling up all his free time for him, which he loves so much.