By Amanda Bradshaw Sharpe
University Relations

MURFREESBORO – During the joint Board of Trustees and Board of Visitors luncheon on Dec. 7, Chowan University President Christopher White presented John Tayloe, Vice President for Development, the Spirit of Chowan Award.

Dr. White stated, “Only eleven people have received this award over the period of 15 years. It is a very prestigious and rare honor.”

As Dr. White presented the award, he said, “The newest recipient of this award is a native of this area (Bertie County), a Chowan alumnus, an outstanding friend maker, scholarship donor, friend of everyone here. I have developed almost a father-son relationship with him over the last 15 years. He won an audition to be VP of Development before he knew what was happening to him. He bleeds blue and white and his name is John Tayloe.”

As the room rose in standing applause, Tayloe modestly accepted the Spirit of Chowan Award.

“One of the joys of being a University President is the opportunity, to on occasion, recognize individuals for special commendation, beyond the call of duty kind of commendations,” President White explained.

Jewell Faye Glover, a former trustee favorite, set up an award called the Spirit of Chowan Award that has been given to people of meritorious service beyond the call of duty.

As Tayloe embarks on his 23rd year with the University, his passion for Chowan and his work for the Office of Development continue to shine through in every encounter. He believes whole-heartedly in the mission of the University, which is why he is so successful. Each of Tayloe’s encounters are sincere. Whether he is at work, or not, he represents Chowan to the highest caliber.

Tayloe says, “One of the greatest joys in my life is helping others make a difference in the life of Chowan. Connecting alumni and friends with the many opportunities to give is a rewarding experience.

It is hard to tell how many lives, directly or indirectly, have been impacted by his efforts.

As Vice President for Development, this 1994 Chowan alumnus supervises the Development staff, inclusive of the University Relations team. In addition to serving on the president’s senior staff and securing gifts to ensure the financial competency of the University, he provides oversight for seven full-time staff members, plus student employees and interns. He is a humble leader who does not ask his staff to do something he would not do himself. He provides guidance and support to those around him, constantly offering opportunities he believes will better them. He is well-known and active in the community. He serves without the expectation of recognition.

The Spirit of Chowan Award is intended to honor extraordinary individuals who so embody the heart and soul of the University that they warrant recognition by the University community. This may be a student, faculty, staff member, or friend of the university who has overcome significant adversity; who has displayed the characteristics of a servant in the model of Christ; who has remained committed to the mission of the University and his or her personal relationship with God; or who has embodied the spirit of the history, mission and perseverance of the University.

For more information about Chowan University, visit www.chowan.edu or call 1-888-4-CHOWAN.