After graduating from JMU in 1985, David Taylor began working at the university and has enthusiastically served campus for more than 35 years. He first started out as Assistant Director of Sports Information, where he was the primary media contact for a variety of teams. Mr. Taylor then became the Assistant Director of Public Information, where he produced a weekly newspaper for JMU faculty and staff, later named “The Commons.” In 1990, he began his role as Director of Publications, where he made significant contributions in moving University Communications and Marketing into an office that manages brand identity. Mr. Taylor then became Director of Electronic Communication, where he played a key role in developing the university’s website and developing videos for the Board of Visitors, the Office of Orientation, and the Office of Admissions. During this time, his team defined the theme of All Together One for incoming Dukes – it is he and the marketing team we can thank for ODK’s tradition and ceremony that we are having today! 

In 2004, Mr. Taylor became Director of University Marketing, where he continued to build a team of professionals who laid the groundwork for the university’s brand that we all know today. He was also responsible for developing a communications and marketing strategy to increase participation and involvement in university programs across all audiences. In 2012, Mr. Taylor started his current role, as Senior Director of Advancement Marketing. In this position, he has significantly impacted the university’s fundraising efforts and created marketing strategies that have supported the university through alumni investment in JMU students, programs, capital projects and (his personal favorite) student scholarships. Last May, he was the strategic marketing force behind Madison for Keeps Scholarship drive, which surpassed the alumni challenge and raised more than $750,000.

In addition to his years of service in JMU Communications and Marketing, he continued as the radio broadcaster for the women’s basketball team for decades and can be seen wearing purple alongside his family at many other athletics events. His team describes Mr. Taylor as “a servant leader – thoughtful, steady, conscientious, diplomatic and humble.” Mr. Taylor not only shows his commitment to the Harrisonburg community through supporting the Harrisonburg Rockingham Child Day Care Center as producer for the charity’s annual Dancing with the Stars, but also displays his flair for showmanship as a ballroom dancer. In his final year before retirement, I am honored to present this All Together One award to such an integral member of James Madison’s community. Thank you, Mr. Taylor.