Home Programs & Services Women in Higher Education

A Generous Heart, Always Willing to Help Others

Jacqueline E. Taylor was my aunt, my friend, and my colleague. Jackie, we all called her, died of lupus in May of 2007. Her sudden departure from this place called earth left a void for many. Jackie was loved, admired and highly respected by all who knew her. Even at the end of her journey, she held her head up high, laughed, joked and kept a positive outlook on life. Although it was hard to see her suffering during her last days, her continuous declaration that "it's in God's hands" gave me and my family peace. Jackie's new found peace and contentment was a result of her acceptance of Jesus Christ as her personal Savior. My family is especially proud of our cohesiveness. We celebrate all accomplishments. At those celebrations, Jackie always prepared her delicious deviled eggs and sweet potatoes. We have yet to find anyone in our family to take on those dishes. Needless to say, our cookouts will never be the same.

Growing up in the District of Columbia, Jackie attended DC Public Schools. After graduating from Francis L. Cardozo Senior High School, she attended Georgetown University and Howard University on a basketball scholarship. Jackie loved basketball and she was really good. She also ran track in her early years participating in the Youth Games and Penn Relays. Jackie was such an inspiration to me. Since my mom was fairly young when I was born, Jackie was very instrumental in raising me. She often referred to me as the daughter she never had. As a matter of fact, she never gave birth to any children. I remember when she, my mom and I shared a queen size bed. Boy, was that a nightly adventure. I really miss confiding in her. I always knew no matter what, my secret was safe with her. As a teenager, I became a little adventurous; wanting to do things my way. Instead of always scolding me, my aunt Jackie gave me sound guidance that has helped me become the professional I am today.

Not only was Jackie my aunt and my friend, she was my colleague at the American Council on Education (ACE) where she was employed for 18 years. She was a very dedicated employee and loved her job. In 1992, one year after my high school graduation, Jackie told me about a temporary position at ACE. Needless to say, I was given the position and have been employed with ACE since. Jackie also had a way with words. She became the jinglier for the ACE Long Service Committee. Her creative touch to incorporate personal descriptions of the honorees was always the talk of the event.

Jackie was a wonderful person. She was so generous. She would do anything for anyone. When she sensed you were in trouble without asking for help, she was always there to offer her assistance. I really miss her and will never forget how her wonderful spirit impacted my life.

—Affectionately submitted,
   Zenitta Anderson
   Manager, Business and Operations
   American Council on Education