Taylor Washington Named 2020 Torchbearer
Taylor Washington, of Memphis, is a Haslam Scholar studying political science with a concentration in public administration and Africana studies and a minor in public policy analytics. She was one of six university seniors named Torchbearer for spring 2020, the university’s highest honor given to seniors who have achieved exemplary academic success and displayed a selfless commitment to helping others.
Washington has held leadership roles with Minority Enhancement for the University of Tennessee (ME4UT), the Office of Diversity and Engagement Student Advisory Board, and the Student Alumni Associates. She is also a dedicated member of Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority, serving a previous term as chapter president.
Working with Bridges USA and Preserver Partners, she has developed mentorship programs and community workshops, educating middle and high school students on important topics such as sexual violence and financial literacy. She plans to attend law school at Penn State University in the fall.
Washington values community and friendship.
“My favorite memory on Rocky Top has been attending all the football games with my friends and the rest of the Volunteer family that comes to campus,” Washington said. “If I had to name one specific game, it would be the 2016 Florida game, when we had that amazing comeback. There is nothing like being in Neyland with thousands of other people cheering for the Vols.”