Lyon College Executive Vice President and Provost Kurt Grafton has announced the appointment of Donald R. Taylor as director of the Title III Thriving Scots Grant, effective January 2.
Taylor, now in his 24th year at Lyon College, has served in leadership roles across Advancement, Academics, Admissions, and Human Resources. Since 2022, he has worked as director of academic support and accessibility, overseeing student success initiatives and disability support services. His previous experience includes serving as director of TRIO Student Support Services at Ozarka College and as director of human resources and Title IX coordinator at Cottey College in Missouri.
A graduate of Newark High School, Taylor has lived in the Batesville area since 1986. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Lyon College and a Master of Education from the University of Arkansas. His community involvement includes board service with the Batesville Community Theater, Batesville Area Arts Council, Humane Society of Independence County, and the Independence County Historical Society. In 2014, he received Lyon College’s Outstanding Staff Member Award.
The Thriving Scots Title III Strengthening Institutions Program is a five-year federal grant designed to expand Lyon College’s capacity to support first-year, first-generation, low-income, and academically underprepared students. The initiative includes the development of residential learning communities and modernization of institutional data systems to improve retention, persistence, and graduation outcomes.
“I’ve spent my career helping students navigate their path to success, and this grant gives us the resources to reach more students, earlier and more effectively,” Taylor said. “No student should feel invisible. Through the Title III initiative, we’re building structures that ensure every student has a place and a path to thrive.”
Grafton said Taylor’s leadership will play a key role in advancing the college’s mission. “Donald has a deep understanding of student success and a proven record of leadership across multiple areas of the college,” he said. “I am confident the Thriving Scots initiative will make a meaningful difference for our students and strengthen Lyon College for the future.”
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