In a heartfelt tribute, this episode of That Yearbook Podcast commemorates Mike Taylor, CJE, a transformative figure in yearbook education who passed away in January after an 18-month battle with brain cancer.
A Life of Passion and Purpose
Mike Taylor, known for his spirited personality and unwavering commitment to students and advisers, left an indelible mark on the yearbook community. Colleagues describe him as a visionary who created innovative programs and consistently championed others’ success.
During his time at Walsworth, Mike played a pivotal role in shaping adviser and student training. He was instrumental in developing and leading national events like Adviser Academy and summer workshops, where he shared his passion for scholastic journalism with thousands. His innovative approach transformed traditional yearbook education—perhaps most memorably through the creation of Elite Weekends, immersive learning experiences that went beyond standard training. His workshops were legendary, characterized by interactive games, spontaneous dance parties and an uncanny ability to make complex design concepts accessible and exciting.
Mike’s influence extended across multiple platforms. He hosted the Ask Mike podcast, wrote the long-running “Ask Mike” column in Idea File magazine and appeared in countless training videos that are still used in classrooms today. He contributed to major projects like the “Understanding Why Design Matters” unit in the Yearbook Suite curriculum and authored valuable resources like “The Mike Taylor Back-to-School Checklist” and other popular eBooks for advisers.
Beyond professional achievements, Mike was known for his deep connections. He had a talent for remembering names, creating nicknames, and making every student and adviser feel uniquely valued. Whether working with high school journalists or professional colleagues, he approached each interaction with genuine enthusiasm and care. He was a constant innovator, always seeking new ways to inspire creativity and passion in scholastic journalism, and was actively involved with national organizations like JEA and CSPA.
Even during his battle with brain cancer, Mike remained committed to the yearbook community, continuing to contribute ideas and support until his final days. His last major contribution was suggesting the workshop theme “Here for It.”
The Magic of Mike
What made Mike special was his ability to make everyone feel important. He embodied the spirit of inclusive leadership through nicknames, spontaneous games or genuine emotional connections.
Mike’s interpersonal magic manifested in seemingly simple yet profound ways. He had an extraordinary gift for creating instant connections, transforming mundane interactions into memorable experiences. His approach went far beyond traditional professional networking; he genuinely saw and celebrated the unique potential in every individual.
His emotional intelligence was perhaps his most impressive trait. Mike could provide brutally honest feedback about a yearbook design while simultaneously making the recipient feel supported and motivated. Colleagues recall his ability to critique constructively, always centering the individual’s potential rather than their current limitations.
Tender-hearted and unafraid of vulnerability, Mike would often tear up when celebrating others’ achievements. These genuine emotional responses demonstrated his deep commitment to human connection. He wasn’t just a professional mentor, but a true champion of individual dreams and collective success.
In essence, Mike’s “magic” was his unwavering belief that every person has inherent worth. He didn’t just lead; he lifted, inspired and transformed those around him through authentic, compassionate engagement.
Listen to “That Yearbook Podcast”
Mike Taylor’s legacy transcends a single podcast episode or professional career. His impact resonates through the countless lives he touched, the innovative programs he created, and the spirit of compassionate leadership he embodied. By sharing his story, Jim Jordan and Sabrina Schmitz have done more than memorialize a colleague; they’ve provided a blueprint for meaningful professional engagement. Listen to the latest episode of That Yearbook Podcast to hear the full story. Happy yearbooking and remember to Be Like Mike!
