Diann (James) Taylor graduated with her Bachelor of Science in Education in 1974 and a Master of Education in 1990. She served the Wichita Falls ISD in many capacities with more than 40 years of service before her retirement in 2015.

Taylor says one of her greatest achievements was guiding many students to graduation from high school or to attain a GED so that they could be productive members of society. The Kirby Middle School Library was named “The Diann Taylor Library of Excellence” in her honor upon her retirement.

Under Taylor’s leadership, Kirby Junior High School was named a National Blue Ribbon School, a Texas Blue Ribbon School, and the No. 1 Magnet School of America, by the United States Department of Education.

Taylor attended public schools at Colorado ISD in Colorado City, Texas, where she was inducted into the school’s Wall of Honor for her many achievements in education and the community. She continues to provide a scholarship to the high school in memory of her mother.

Taylor is active in her community through numerous organizations including Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Boys and Girls Club both with more than 25 years of service and currently serves as president of the MSU Texas Alumni Association.