Albany Technical College is proud to announce the upcoming TEAAMS Monthly Empowerment Session on October 17 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., at the Logistics Education Center. The featured speaker for this session will be Tracy Taylor. As part of the college’s initiative, Teaching, Empowering, African American Males to Succeed (TEAAMS), the program aims to equip African American males with essential skills to help them persist and succeed despite internal and external challenges. 

“We are grateful for the support, and excited to see this Albany Technical College alum giving back,” said Quanta Bell, TEAAMS Project Director. “Each month, TEAAMS hosts a Monthly Empowerment Session, where ATC faculty and community leaders are invited to speak to students.” 

Tracy Taylor, a native of Waycross, Georgia, exemplifies unwavering commitment to community involvement and leadership. He currently serves as the President of the Albany/Dougherty NAACP and has dedicated his life to public service, notably as a firefighter and political advocate. His career is distinguished by strong affiliations with political leaders in Atlanta, Albany, and Washington, D.C., showcasing his influence and dedication to community progress.

Taylor's political journey began in 2010 when he supported Sanford Bishop's campaign, an experience that sparked his own political aspirations. Since then, he has held various positions, including Commissioner of Albany. He has also expanded his political portfolio, running for Mayor, State House Representative, and State Senator. Notably, he became the first African American to chair the Republican Party in his region and now serves as Vice Chairman of the City of Albany's Community Development Council board. His leadership is centered on inclusivity and addressing community needs, making him a trusted advisor for individuals of all generations. 

Outside of his public roles, Tracy is a devoted family man and a Christian. He and his wife, Brittany, have been married for 13 years and are proud parents to four children: Elijah, Israel, Savannah, and Naomi. The Taylor family’s deep connection to their community reflects the values of service and dedication that Tracy embodies. 

Education has played a pivotal role in Taylor's life. In 2013, he earned an associate’s degree in Dental Assisting from Albany Technical College. His passion for learning led him to pursue additional degrees in Fire Science Technology and Criminal Justice from Albany Technical College. He later earned a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice from Albany State University, with aspirations to further his career in law and deepen his commitment to advocacy and public service.

In 2022, Tracy Taylor was awarded 40 under 40 for his outstanding work. Through this initiative, Taylor has created a platform empowering young men to assume leadership roles, delivering essential guidance and support. The organization's mission to foster leadership has profoundly impacted numerous lives, reinforcing Taylor's legacy of service. 

Tracy Taylor's steadfast dedication to community service and political advocacy continues to leave an enduring imprint. His efforts to bridge divides and nurture more robust, inclusive communities are a testament to his commitment to effecting positive change. As a beacon of hope and inspiration, Taylor's work underscores the transformative power of leadership and community engagement, serving as a potent reminder that committed individuals can indeed effect substantial change in the world.