In Memoriam: Sylvia Taylor

Having worked with Sylvia for so many years, I have been thinking about all the wonderful interactions, help and support I have had. The word empathetic keeps coming to mind as she always embraced each of us and personally helped us in so many ways. She was always thinking and planning ahead and conscious of what needed to be done to support our work. Sylvia was always so positive and showed her genuine concern and care for each of us. She will be sorely missed.

Marilyn George

WASC Executive Vice President

On behalf of the trainers from the past twenty-five years, we happily share our thoughts with you and know that those of you touched by Sylvia’s goodness, expertise, and grace are also reflecting on the wonderful memories that you shared.

Sylvia coordinated the WASC training schedule and trainers with kindness and professionalism. She was so supportive and immediately responsive to our training needs. She was not only a professional colleague but also a very good friend of mine in and out of the office. I will miss her greatly.

Joanne Cacicedo, WASC Director/Trainer

Sylvia was wise, caring, generous with time, and enthusiastic about WASC. She would leave anyone feeling better for having had her attention. She would guide us as trainers from deep in San Diego to as far as San Francisco. Always professional, with beautiful emails, and who can forget the voice, as she greeted members and WASCateers? Sylvia completed a remarkable career. All of us could call her at any time and she was there to help. Sylvia loved to be with her husband and to cook. Sylvia was looking forward to her retirement and spending more time with her dear Jim. She was writing a novel that awaits a final chapter.

Nadine Elwood, WASC Director/Trainer

Like so many losses, this feels like an impossibility. Sylvia’s laugh, kindness, and caring in all the ways she served will forever be with me. We truly are blessed to have worked alongside her!

Lianne Greenlee, WASC Trainer

Sylvia was very special. She will be missed! She always had a smile on her face and in her voice. No question or request was beyond her ability to fulfill. She was a great friend and I will miss her!

Janet Knoeppel, WASC Trainer

Sylvia’s support was so valuable. It was an honor to know her. Her kindness and compassion have touched many of us.

Doug Paulson, WASC Consultant/Trainer

Sylvia was always pleasant, upbeat, and respectful - even in emails or Zoom meetings her warmth came through.

Elisa Ragus, WASC Trainer

It was always a pleasure to hear Sylvia say hello over Zoom. Her warm welcome brightened my day. She was able to do whatever was needed to make the training go well! She was a true gem.

Kara Rosenberg, WASC Trainer

I am beyond sad. Sylvia and I worked so closely together. She was always there for me providing support and assistance. Never a complaint, always helpful. I will miss her not just as a colleague but also as a friend. If there was anyone who personified what it meant to be a “WASCATEER”, it was Sylvia. Sylvia was deeply committed and dedicated to WASC’s vision and mission. She was always there for those who needed her help. Always cheerful, always positive, and warm, Sylvia fulfilled her role with skill and grace. For those of us who had the privilege of knowing and working with Sylvia, we will miss her. May she rest in peace.

John Sugiyama, WASC Consultant/Trainer

I could always call Sylvia before a training to get the names of onsite personnel and facility tips and I tried to get back to her afterward with feedback on how everything went. She cared both about the quality of the workshop and my support and comfort. She was bright, funny and caring. I’ll miss her.

Janet Torncello, WASC Trainer