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Born June 22, 1946 in Mt. Vernon, New York, Dr. Karen Taylor subsequently moved every few years of life. Such reolocations orchestrated her meeting her husband at the United States Naval Academy ('68) from where he was commissioned as a US Marine officer and subsequently served in Vietnam. Their marriage led to more moving thus exposing Karen to a variety of cultural traditions and understandings from different parts of America. In spite of transfers, she quickly became involved with church and neighborhood communities and has cultivated friendships that spread from New Hampshire to the Hawaiian Islands.
Originally educated as a music teacher, Karen taught in public schools for several years. When moves made a steady job impossible, she continued to use her talents through conducting choirs, singing solos, directing, and writing children's musicals. Although a voracious volunteer in ther children's schools, this busy woman was also available to support her husband's insurance executive career (after he was medically retired, as the result of a leg amputation, from the USMC) by hosting receptions, attending dinners, and raising the family when her spouse had to go on business trips. She also accompanied him to conventions and seminars that took them not only to wonderful places in the states but also throughout the British Commonwealth.
In 1976, five years after marriage, Dr. Taylor and her husband (with only one leg) sailed, with their young son, their own 32' sailboat from Los Angeles to Hilo, Hawaii. Such love for radical adventures was also exercised when the couple, in 2004, embarked on a mission trip to the isiXhosa tribes who reside in the Transkei of South Africa.
As a Precepts Bible study leader, Karen became fascinated with ancient history and Scriptural languages of Hebrew and Greek. At the age of 58, she entered seminary and earned both a Masters in Biblical Studies and a Doctor of Ministry in Spiritual Formational Counseling. Karen has also interned as a Hospice Chaplain and is a licensed minister.
Dr. Taylor is presently enrolled in a Master's program towards becoming certified as a family and marriage therapist. Her educational qualifications have prepared her for this step. Further, Karen's experiential background has allowed her to glean from the trials of life that qualify her as an astutue mentor. The most pragmatic challenge has been caring for her 67 year old husband who became symptomatic in 1998 and was subsequently diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer's disease in 2005. He is now placed and is in the last stage of AD.
Ms. Colorado Senior America 2011 is sadly, and yet excitely, on the verge of a new life backed by years of unique proficiencies. As indicated by authoring a book, In the Midst, written for caregiver's of those diagnosed, Karen's heart goes out to the ones who lift up the wings of those who are terminally ill. She longs to embolden them and listen to their stories "in the midst" of their journey as care partners.
With experience, knowledge, and wisdom tucked under her belt, Dr. Taylor is intent on encouraging and strengthening the position of senior citizens in society and in being an integral part of the baby boomer population's forthcoming contributions to our nation and world. Karen also values spending time with her 3 wonderful children and 4 exquisite grandchildren. She enjoys swimming, creating stained glass windows and lamps, photography (on land and underwater), guitar, piano, and sitting in the middle of a forest savoring the quiet, the beauty, and the Presence of God.
The Ms. Senior
America Pageant is the world's first and foremost pageant to
emphasize and give honor to women who have reached the "Age of
Elegance." It is a search for the gracious lady who best
exemplifies the dignity, maturity and inner beauty of all
senior Americans. The Ms. Senior America philosophy is based
upon the belief that seniors are the foundation of America,
and our most valuable treasure. It is upon their knowledge,
experience and resources that the younger generation has the
opportunity to build a better society.
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