Posted on January 27, 2023 by College of Sciences
#StaffSpotlight
Taylor Bird, Chief Development Officer, College of Sciences Office of the Dean
Please tell us about yourself.
Hi everyone! As many of you know I am Taylor Bird, Chief Development Officer for the College of Sciences. I have worked at UTSA for 10 years – four of which have been in the college!
I have the pleasure of working with individuals, foundations, organizations, and companies to support everything we do in the college, from scholarships to endowed faculty positions, gifts supporting research, and more.
I am honored to represent UTSA and the College of Sciences in the community, share the great work of our students, faculty, and staff, and connect people to our mission through philanthropy.
Outside of work I enjoy yoga, cooking healthy meals, and being a dog mom.
What did your journey to UTSA look like?
I am a proud UTSA alum! As an undergrad I studied archaeology and conducted fieldwork in Belize under Dr. Kat Brown. I was part of a team which uncovered a 2500-year-old burial near an ancient Mayan archaeological site called Xunantunich. This transformational experience instilled within me a deep appreciation for the work of faculty researchers and the importance of providing access to higher education to train the next generation of scientists and scholars.
As an undergrad I also discovered development – I was a student caller, and later managed the student call center. When the opportunity arose to take on a full-time position, I jumped on it! It was a great way to launch my career as development professional and support a mission I truly believe in. Since then, I have taken advantage of the many opportunities to learn, challenge myself, and contribute meaningfully to projects I am part of. I feel lucky to be here.
How would you describe your role at UTSA in 10 words or less?
I help people understand they can make a difference.
What is your proudest moment with the College of Sciences?
My proudest moments are when I can introduce a faculty member or student to a donor who has supported their work. It is so meaningful to have that human connection – for donors and the people they support!
What do you enjoy most about your job?
The people! I am constantly inspired by the work being done at every level in the college. To then see that work recognized and affirmed by our donor community is extremely gratifying.
What does your ideal Saturday look like?
My ideal Saturday begins with yoga, then a trip to Landa Library to browse their collection of cookbooks, followed by Bright for a coffee and some leisurely reading, and updating my budget (personal finance is a hobby of mine). It would include a trip to Central Market to gather all the ingredients for a new recipe, and snuggling up with my dog, Ollie, to watch Only Murders in the Building or Abbott Elementary . Maybe throw in some skincare and playing guitar...is it Saturday yet?
— College of Sciences
