Inspirational Icon in Publishing Leaves Essence Magazine

Inspirational author, editor, and activist Susan L. Taylor recently announced that she is leaving her post as Editorial Director of Essence Magazine to devote more time and energy to her youth service program, Essence Cares (National Cares Mentoring Movement). Ms. Taylor was the driving force behind Essence Magazine for over thirty years, the iconic beauty had interviewed hundreds of dignitaries and influential people in the arts, politics and entertainment while at Essence. She rose through the ranks at Essence starting as a Beauty Editor, and then becoming Editor-In-Chief. Ms. Taylor is the author of three books: In the Spirit, Lessons in Living and Confirmation (with her husband Khephra Burns). She also wrote the inspirational column, "In the Spirit" which has featured in Essence Magazine for many years. In 2004, Black Issues Book Review featured a wonderful interview with Ms. Taylor (with Malaika Adero), titled "Black publishing's inspirational godmother: Susan L. Taylor reflects on her 34 years nurturing writers at Essence."

As a writer, and woman who has always been drawn to inspirational writings based on spirituality and inner healing, I must say that Susan L. Taylor has always been an influence on my life. As a sophomore in college at Hampton University in Virginia, I used to tear out and save Taylor's "In the Spirit" essays and post them over my bed or other areas in my dorm room to remind me of my goals and the positive attitude I wanted to have each day. It was quite an honor to finally meet Ms. Taylor in person, when she came to speak at Hampton, while I was a junior and publicity intern at the school. I found her to be graceful and striking in her appearance. I have since seen Ms. Taylor at several cultural events here in New York City and have continued to be inspired by her pursuit of personal excellence and activism in helping youth achieve their goals.

Although Ms. Taylor's departure from Essence Magazine is not a good-bye forever, it certainly marks the end of a certain era. However, it is always great to see someone being able to move on , past a period in their lives to devote greater time and energy to the things which they deem as needing their talents the most. Rest assured, anything Susan L. Taylor devotes her focus and passion to, will be a phenomenal work indeed.