Golden Time of Day

“Golden Time of Day” is the song Sandy Taylor chose to sum up her feelings about retiring. It was performed by Bill Perry and his accompanying musicians at the party celebrating Sandy’s new beginning.

What an AMAZING turnout! After 34 years of service, I had the privilege of joining others to celebrate the retirement of Mrs. Sandy Taylor who has left her position as the Superintendent for the Tuskegee Institute National Historic Site, the Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site, and the Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail. She was honored over a delicious dinner with drinks, great music, and an amazing setting where guests enjoyed positive vibes  inside the setting and also outside on the wraparound porch where a beautiful lake glistened from the ray’s of the setting sun.

Prior to the event, I watched a video of  Mrs. Taylor in which she discussed how much she enjoyed her job because of the influence her parents made on her as a little girl; they too were very much involved in civil rights. When she described her career as a “fairytale walking with both of her parents on her shoulder,” I imagined how great it would be to be, if I too could experience work that I genuinely loved. Even after her retirement, she made it clear that she would remain active in serving this community by making it a better place.  That really hit home with me since loving Tuskegee is something that is a part of my DNA!

I realized how great of an impact she had on her family, friends, and coworkers based on the number of people who came out to show their appreciation. My personal favorite was the part of the ceremony where guests took turns sharing stories about how they met Mrs. Taylor. Many people praised her for being a phenomenal leader and an inspiration.

I was invited by ECHOboom editor, Karin Hopkins who recognized this event as a media opportunity. So, of course I introduced myself to Mrs. Taylor.

Everyone was so nice and I thank Ms. Maggie Thomas for taking a picture with me. She runs the Tuskegee Airmen Inc. organization and was another powerhouse woman I met at the party.

I am forever a fan of those who are compassionate and take pride in what they do. I noticed how warm and welcoming Mrs. Taylor was when I spoke with her and that alone gave me insights as to how she succeeded throughout her career. After the small talk, she extended an invite for future conversations. I immediately accepted because I am very much interested in getting to know more of what she has done as well as sharing what is in my heart.

Job well done, Mrs. Taylor and congratulations!