Celebrating Dr. Iris Taylor: A Champion for DPSCD Students and a Crain’s Notable Nonprofit Board Leader

Feb 17, 2025Uncategorized

At the Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD) Foundation, we know that transformative leadership can change lives, open doors, and create lasting impact for students and families. That is why we are proud to celebrate Dr. Iris Taylor, who has been recognized as a Crain’s 2024 Notable Nonprofit Board Leader for her unwavering commitment to educational equity and student success in DPSCD.

Smiling woman with wavy, shoulder-length light brown hair, wearing a red jacket with black embroidery and a red beaded necklace, against a plain white background—Dr. Iris Taylor, a dedicated nonprofit board leader.
Dr. Iris Taylor,
DPSCD Foundation Board Chair and Crain’s Notable Nonprofit Leader

A Legacy of Leadership and Impact

Dr. Taylor has long been a force for change in Detroit’s education landscape. Through her leadership, she has helped secure critical funding to break down barriers and expand opportunities for DPSCD students. Among her many accomplishments, Dr. Taylor:

  • Led efforts to bring a Health Hub model to 12 DPSCD high schools with support from the Ballmer Foundation, ensuring students have access to coordinated health services and resources.
  • Played a pivotal role in securing state funding for Davis Aerospace Technical High School’s relocation to City Airport, reinforcing DPSCD’s commitment to innovative, career-focused education.
  • Advocates for mental health, career readiness, and student success through her involvement in multiple community boards and initiatives.

Her leadership is more than just policy and funding; it’s about ensuring every DPSCD student has the resources and opportunities to reach their full potential.

Three people stand together smiling in front of a white brick wall. The woman on the left, possibly a nonprofit board leader, wears a black hat and jacket. The man in the middle dons a suit, while Dr. Iris Taylor on the right sports a tweed jacket. A poster is visible in the background.
Dr. Taylor, pictured with Gary Torgow and DPSCD President and CEO Kerrie Mitchell, at the unveiling of the Joel Landy Automotive Lab at Breithaupt, made possible through a $1,000,000 donation from the Joel Landy Foundation.

A Celebration of Excellence Throughout DPSCD History

As we prepare to celebrate the legendary impact of DPSCD and its alumni at the Tyrone E. Winfrey Hall of Fame Alumni Gala, Dr. Taylor’s recognition serves as a powerful reminder of the excellence that stems from our district. DPSCD alumni are legendary — and that deserves celebrating.

On May 3, 2025, we will roll out our signature blue carpet in celebration of the outstanding achievements of DPSCD alumni, particularly those who have dedicated their lives to making a difference. This premier event will bring together alumni, educators, and community leaders for an evening of recognition, inspiration, and philanthropy.

Join Us in Celebrating Excellence

We invite you to be part of this unforgettable night, where we will celebrate the leaders, advocates, and changemakers who make DPSCD a beacon of opportunity. Secure your tickets today and be part of the legacy.

Promotional banner for the Tyrone E. Winfrey Hall of Fame Alumni Gala featuring a golden text logo on a dark blue background with shining edges. Celebrating Dr. Iris Taylor, nonprofit board leader. Join us May 3, 2025. Visit www.halloffamedetroit.org. Detroit Public Schools logo on left.

GET TICKETS TO THE TYRONE E. WINFREY HALL OF FAME GALA

About the DPSCD Foundation

The Detroit Public Schools Community District Foundation is dedicated to removing barriers and expanding opportunities for DPSCD students. Through strategic partnerships, scholarships, and innovative initiatives, we work to ensure every student has the support they need to thrive in school and beyond.

From funding critical programs like STEM education, mental health resources, and career readiness initiatives, to hosting the Hall of Fame Alumni Gala, our mission is clear: to provide the next generation of Detroit’s leaders with the tools and opportunities they deserve.

We are proud to celebrate Dr. Iris Taylor and all those who make this work possible. Join us in honoring the past, investing in the future, and ensuring that every DPSCD student has the chance to shine.

Read more about Dr. Taylor’s recognition in Crain’s Detroit Business: View the Full Announcement