Taylor Lester is the program coordinator for the Center for Online Learning, Research and Service (COLRS).

Can you give me a brief timeline of how your career led you to UIS?

Before coming to UIS, I was a high school English teacher for eight years. I taught a lot of courses, but one of my favorites to teach was my AP English Language and Composition course for seniors. As the first in my family to go to college, helping these students navigate that transition from high school to college was highly rewarding for me, and it led me to start thinking about moving to higher education myself. I was drawn to this role in COLRS because I know that one of the best things we can do for students is support the people who work closely with them!

What do you like to do outside of work?

I love stories, so a lot of the things I enjoy outside of work have a good story to them! I spend a lot of my time reading or playing video games, but one of my favorite hobbies is playing Dungeons & Dragons with my friends. The combination of storytelling and collaboration is so fulfilling and fun! And of course, I also love spending time with my cats, Luna and Zuko.

Who's someone who has had a significant impact on your life/career?

Teachers! I've had a lot of really great teachers over the years, but there have been a few standouts. Mrs. Lyla Joseph, my eighth-grade English teacher, really got me started on the path to becoming a teacher myself with her incredible warmth and kindness. My professors at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign—most specifically, Dr. Arlette Willis and Dr. David Zola—really challenged my worldview and provided so much encouragement during my undergraduate experience. Mr. Chris Taylor, my department chair and mentor during my eight years of teaching, believed in me before I even thought to believe in myself and my own abilities. Educators have the power to change people's lives, and I'm so grateful to the educators who changed mine!

Is there a book, movie, or TV show that you've recently read/watched and liked?

I've read some pretty good stuff, but something that really resonated with me recently is the Monk & Robot duology by Becky Chambers. The books follow two characters who are seeking answers to some really big questions about the world and about people, and in the process, they discover the importance of community and connection and authenticity. These were such a heartwarming and cozy read.

Getting to Know You is recurring feature in the Chancellor's Newsletter to highlight our many talented UIS employees.