KUDOS: Dr. Jacqueline Taylor named Lakin Institute Fellow

Southwest congratulates Dr. Jacqueline Taylor, Executive Director of Retention and Student Success, on being named one of 14 fellows who attended the Thomas Lakin Institute for Mentored Leadership (Lakin Institute) conference last month. I was truly humbled to be nominated by President Hall and Vice President Faulkner, Dr. Taylor said. It meant a lot to me to be considered an individual with the highest potential to lead a community college in the future as president.

The Lakin Institute seeks African-American participants whose experience and credentials indicate they are ready to attain the highest academic positions. Dr. Taylor says the conference gave her a chance to engage in open dialogue with chancellors, presidents and college CEOs. It covered all aspects of academic leadership, she said. My passion and purpose is to transform lives by leveling the playing field for all through quality, affordable, holistic higher education and the Lakin Institute has equipped me to live out that calling, she said. It was truly a life changing experience for me and I know that I will be better able to effectively serve all students while making innovative and meaningful contributions to my community in the days ahead.