Delta State University Launches Taylor Cordel Skelton Memorial Scholarship to Honor the Legacy of a Dedicated Social Work Advocate

Delta State University has taken a poignant step to immortalize the memory of Taylor Cordel Skelton, a beloved alumna who significantly impacted the university and the realm of social work. In a heartwarming announcement, the institution revealed the establishment of the Taylor Cordel Skelton Memorial Scholarship, a tribute to the life and achievements of this remarkable individual.

Taylor Cordel Skelton’s educational journey commenced at North Delta School in Batesville before she found her academic home at Delta State University. After graduating with a bachelor’s degree in social work in 2014, she furthered her passion by earning a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Alabama. Taylor’s commitment to her chosen path was unwavering as she pursued a Ph.D. from Walden University and served as an Instructor of Social Work and the director of BSW Field Education at Delta State University.

Apart from her academic excellence, Taylor was an active and dedicated university community member, holding key leadership roles. She was the president-elect of the Faculty Senate and served as the faculty sponsor for the Eta Xi Chapter of the Phi Alpha Honor Society.

The lives she touched and the inspiration she provided were tragically cut short in September of 2022 when Taylor lost her life in a devastating car accident. Grieving the loss of their daughter, Laurie and Phil Cordel, Taylor’s parents, decided to create a memorial scholarship to celebrate Taylor’s passion for education and her commitment to social work.