Bio

Loretta attended Oak Grove High School in Paragould, Arkansas and graduated in 1944 second in her class as an honor student. As a competitor, she also played basketball.

After high school, Loretta attended Abilene Christian College in Abilene, Texas. Always a dedicated student, she graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science degree and continued her education earning a Master of Science Degree from San Diego State University. Additionally, she earned more than 40 graduate united from SDSU and the University of California.

While working from the FBI in Washington, D.C., Loretta joined the department’s softball team- the accomplished athletes were exciting to watch. As a result, they were invited to play their games before the start of the Washington Senator’s games against such formidable opponents as the Marines and the Army teams. This was an honor considering few women participated in sport at this time and/or were acknowledged for their athleticism.

Hired by Southwestern College in 1965, Loretta worked tirelessly and passionately to build the dance program. As a department chairperson, she served on hiring committees that selected the best dance instructors available and assisted in the implementation of budget funds that helped push the dance curriculum to new heights. As a classroom instructor, Loretta specialized in teaching Health Science classes in such a manner that her students always felt she was personalizing the class just for them.

Outside of the classroom, Loretta served as the first female Governor of Lion’s International of San Diego and Imperial Counties. She devoted 21 years of service to the club in various offices and she received the Melvin Jones Lion’s Fellowship 11 times. Also, Loretta has been a prominent member of Phi Mu Fraternity for 50 years. Phi Mu was chartered in 1904 when the word “sorority” was not commonly used. Loretta has since retired to Cherokee Village, Arkansas. She enjoys frequent communication with her daughter, Maretta and son, Eric, who lives in Denver with his family.

Loretta Taylor- welcome to the 2008 Athletic Hall of Fame and thank you for your many contributions to Southwestern College.