April 8, 2026
“The Power of the River” is not Ed Taylor’s first book, but it is a first for him
Dr. Ed Taylor is the vice provost and dean of Undergraduate Academic Affairs. His new memoir is “The Power of the River.”
Ed Taylor, vice provost and dean of Undergraduate Academic Affairs, professor in the College of Education, academic author, scholar, board member of several international and community-based organizations and former college basketball player, will soon add memoirist to his long list of accomplishments. His memoir, “The Power of the River,” will be released by Seattle-based Hinton Publishing on April 21.
Taylor has been part of the University of Washington community since his days as a graduate student more than 30 years ago. In “The Power of the River,” readers learn about his journey from a childhood marked by loss in Lompoc, California, to his rise as an educator, scholar and leader. Along the way, he invites readers into a story grounded in community, shaped by pivotal relationships and sustained by a search for meaning in the face of adversity.
“The Power of the River” is Ed Taylor’s memoir.
In “The Power of the River,” Taylor writes in a way that is self-reflective and personal yet expansive and universal at the same time. It is a story about what it means to belong, to be guided and to grow. Through moments of doubt and determination, from navigating the pressures placed on young Black men in collegiate athletics at Gonzaga University to finding purpose in higher education, Taylor offers readers a deeply human story about becoming. His examination of mentorship, community, education and growth offer points of connection that can open pathways forward.
At a time when higher education is under fire, Taylor’s story demonstrates the purpose and potential universities can have in individuals’ lives and in the lives of our communities.
Several public events are scheduled to celebrate Taylor’s book.
Public events
Book Launch Celebration at the Northwest African American Museum
April 29, 2026 // 7:00 p.m.
In conversation with Reggie Brown.
RSVP to this event.
Third Place Books Ravenna
May 7, 2026 // 7:00 p.m.
Q&A with Taylor to follow his book talk.
Elliott Bay Book Company
May 22, 2026 // 7:00 p.m.
In conversation with Enrique Cerna.
Folio: The Seattle Athenaeum
June 2, 2026 // 6:00 p.m.
In conversation with Colleen Echohawk.