Taylor Thanked For 14 Years

Faculty Emeritus Bobby Alston wanted to do a little more coaching during the Retiree Chapel May 9. He urged Owls to ask themselves two questions: “What have you accomplished?” and “Who would be honored to document your journey?” The answers to those questions depend on talent, effort, and energy, said the long-time football and track head coach.
Alston made it clear that when it comes to Athletic Administrative Assistant Beth Taylor, “you will see those traits in abundance: talent, effort, and attitude.”

Alston, who worked with Taylor from 2011 until his retirement in 2023, said, “Yours truly and our other coaches relied on Mrs. Taylor constantly. … She completed eligibility reports for all sports, arranged hotels for teams staying overnight, oversaw our internal communication system for coaches, players, and parents. She was the liaison between the coach and the mom captains for what we at MUS call the “Spirit Group.” She set up teams’ pre-season and post-season dinners. She was the main organizer for the Jake Rudolph All-Sports Banquet. She was editor-in-chief for the Media Guide. She played a key role in summer camps. This is far from a complete list, but I think you get the point. Her talents touched us all. Her efforts were extraordinary.”

Students gravitated toward her enthusiasm; warm, engaging personality; and ever-full candy jar. She was a sounding board, supporter, and cheerleader for all Owls.

Colleagues, parents, and former students alike reached out to Alston to sing Taylor’s praises and thank her for her dedicated service.

“When I see Mrs. Taylor, she always has the brightest smile to lighten up my day, but most of all it’s the impact that she has had on my life,” Dorian Hopkins ’19 wrote. “She played a role in encouraging and motivating me to continue working hard and to strive for greatness. Even through college she continued to cheer me on, and I will forever remember her and cherish the times at MUS. Thank you for all the love and support.”

Alston concluded, “Well Beth, as you can see you made a mark with your talent and effort. It is also abundantly clear that your attitude touched many hearts.”

Addressing the assembled students, Taylor said, “I have loved having a first-row seat to see you do the things you love to do outside of the classroom, whether it was on this stage or on the field. … I have loved being there during the school day to celebrate with you, whether it was that you got your learner’s permit, or we crushed [Christian] Brothers another time, or you aced an exam. I’ve loved being a part of that with you.”

The crowd stood to applaud the popular staff member. There to cheer her on were her husband, Kimbrough Taylor 84, and son, Kimbrough Taylor, Jr. ’09.

See the video of the chapel. See photos from the event.
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