Sade Taylor’s commitment to finding her voice as a first-generation college student has led to a seat at one of the most influential tables in Pennsylvania higher education.

Taylor, an early childhood education major and honors student at the PennWest Edinboro campus, has been selected to serve on the Board of Governors for Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education – a prestigious role that places her among the key decision-makers shaping the future of public higher education across the Commonwealth. Student members are full voting members, with the same rights and responsibilities as other board members, and serve from the time they are sworn in until they graduate.

A native of Vandergrift, Pennsylvania, Taylor is a wellness peer educator, trained peer responder, and a DEI student ambassador and Building Bridges facilitator in the Office of Community, Opportunity, Responsibility and Engagement. Her selection reflects not only academic excellence, but also her deep commitment to leadership, advocacy and service.

PennWest President Dr. Jon Anderson praised Taylor in his recommendation letter, highlighting her impact across campus.

“A high-achieving student and highly motivated leader, Sade is passionate about making a meaningful difference in her community,” Anderson said. “Her service to the PennWest Edinboro campus, combined with her strong voice and commitment to student advocacy, positions her well to contribute thoughtfully and effectively at the system level.”

That voice has been shaped through a wide range of leadership experiences. Taylor serves as parliamentarian of the Student Government Association and is active in the PennWest Leadership Academy and the Black Student Union. Through CORE, she helped host the 2025 PASSHE Summit on the PennWest Clarion campus.

For Taylor, the opportunity to serve at the system level is both personal and purposeful.

“I bring the perspective of a first-generation college student who understands what it takes to navigate higher education while balancing multiple responsibilities,” Taylor said.

Her work on campus and beyond has reinforced an approach rooted in empathy. Through initiatives like Building Bridges and the Peer Responders program — as well as co-presenting at the Erie County Suicide Prevention Conference — she has learned how to lead with empathy while navigating complex conversations.

Her interest in advocacy began at Kiski Area High School, where she helped found the Black Student Union — an experience that continues to shape her leadership approach.

“Being in an environment where I didn’t always see people who looked like me or shared similar experiences pushed me to create a space where others could feel seen, supported and heard,” Taylor said.

Her decision to pursue a role on the Board of Governors reflects that same sense of purpose.

“What inspired me to pursue this role really comes from where I started,” she said. “I’ve always felt a responsibility not just for myself, but for my younger siblings and students who come from backgrounds like mine — to show that there are no limits to what we can achieve.”

Now, as she steps into the role, Taylor is focused on representing students across the system and ensuring their voices are heard.

“The biggest responsibility is making sure I’m thinking beyond my own experience and considering the needs of students across the entire system,” she said. “Every campus is different, and every student’s journey looks different. For me, that means being intentional about listening, staying connected and speaking with purpose.”

Looking ahead, Taylor is eager to learn and contribute to conversations around affordability, access and student experience, with a focus on fostering a strong sense of belonging.

“A sense of connection plays a huge role in student success, retention and overall well-being,” Taylor said. “As the system continues to evolve, I hope to help ensure that student experiences, both academically and personally, remain at the center of those decisions.”

As she takes her seat at the table, she brings with her the voice, perspective and aspirations of students across Pennsylvania.

“Being selected means everything to me. It represents not only the work I’ve put in, but also the sacrifices, support and encouragement of the people closest to me,” Taylor said. “It’s truly an honor, but also a responsibility that I carry with pride.”