Ed Taylor, Vice Provost and Dean
Edward Taylor is vice provost and dean of Undergraduate Academic Affairs at the University of Washington, where he oversees educational opportunities that deepen and expand the undergraduate experience. Through Undergraduate Academic Affairs, students are connected to the full breadth and depth of the UW, prepared not only for what lies ahead, but inspired to lead in their communities and careers. Throughout his career, Taylor has been guided by a commitment to expanding access, addressing inequities, and ensuring that schools and universities are places where all students can find a sense of belonging.
Dr. Taylor is a professor in the UW College of Education. His research and teaching explore comparative education in the United States and South Africa, the moral dimensions of education, integrative learning, and leadership for social justice. He studied the psychology of truth and reconciliation in South Africa in the period following Nelson Mandela’s release from prison — an experience that continues to shape his scholarship and perspective. He has written, taught and presented extensively in these areas. His co-edited volumes focus on race and education and race theory in the United States. His co-authored works include “Transformative Conversations: A Guide to Mentoring Communities Among Colleagues in Higher Education” and “Inside the Undergraduate Teaching Experience: The University of Washington’s Growth in Faculty Teaching Study.” He is also the author of “The Power of the River: A Memoir” and numerous journal articles.
Taylor earned his Ph.D. in educational leadership and policy studies from the University of Washington. He holds a master’s degree in psychology and bachelor’s degrees in sociology and psychology from Gonzaga University.
Active locally and globally, Taylor is a founding board member of Rainier Scholars, a college preparatory program for high-achieving students of color. He serves on the board of the Seattle Foundation, is a trustee of Gonzaga University, and has served on the boards of College Spark Washington and the Rwanda Girls Initiative. Nationally, he serves on the board of the Mind & Life Institute, founded by His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Internationally, he has worked alongside school leaders in South African township communities to build coalitions of schools serving children in those communities. In 2014, he received the Distinguished Graduate Award from the UW College of Education. Taylor was awarded an honorary doctorate from Gonzaga University in recognition of his contributions to education, leadership and service.
Education
Ph.D.; University of Washington; Educational Leadership & Policy Studies
M.A.; Gonzaga University; Psychology
B.A.; Gonzaga University; Sociology and Psychology
Selected writing and publications
‘A single garment of destiny.’ Dr. King’s lessons on interconnectedness, KUOW.org, Jan. 16, 2023
MLK said it best: ‘Love is the greatest force in the universe’, The Seattle Times, Jan. 16, 2022
Reflections on Black History Month, Feb. 8, 2021
“I am breathing, but I’m not okay,” opinion, originally published in The Seattle Times, June 5, 2020
Contacts
Fiona Starr, Executive Assistant
206-616-1446 or fstarr33@uw.edu
Contact Fiona to schedule a meeting with Dr. Taylor or for alternate lengths of Dr. Taylor’s bio.
206-221-6130 or katik@uw.edu