Virginia Union University Athletics Director Joe Taylor Receives Honor from the Virginia General Assembly
February 20, 2019
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Click here to view a photo gallery of the event.
(RICHMOND, Virginia) - Virginia Union University (VUU) Athletics Director Joe Taylor became the first African-American College Head Football Coach to be honored by the General Assembly of Virginia. Taylor was honored in recognition of his upcoming induction into the National College Football Hall of Fame. Del. Lamont Bagby (District 74) authored a proclamation which was read on the center aisle of the chamber. Taylor received a standing ovation.
“We always want to recognize those individuals who have not only paved the way, but have also ushered other individuals forward,” Bagby said. “We started talking about Coach Taylor going into the Hall of Fame and people started talking about their memories, whether it be Hampton or Virginia Union. Everyone was just excited to recognize Coach Taylor on the floor.”
Taylor compiled an impressive 233 wins during his 30-year coaching career, ranking him third for most wins among coaches at historically black colleges and universities. His career accomplishments include leading the VUU Panthers to three NCAA DII playoffs in 1986,1990, and 1991; being heralded as the all-time winningest coach in Hampton University history; induction into the CIAA and MEAC Halls of Fame; and, coaching 68 First Team All-Americans.
“This recognition is very humbling,” Taylor said. “It’s a special day and I’m very appreciative. The General Assembly is very busy this time of year, so for them to take time out of their busy schedule meant a lot. But as I used to always tell my student-athletes, hard work does not go unnoticed.”
VUU President and CEO Dr. Hakim Lucas joined Taylor at the General Assembly, on Tuesday, Feb. 19, along with fellow administrators, VUU Trustees, coaches, and supporters.
“We’re just extremely excited about not just the induction of Coach Taylor into the Hall of Fame, but also extremely excited about his ability to represent Virginia Union,” Lucas said. “He’s not just an ambassador of our specific locale, he’s also an ambassador of the state.”
Taylor’s induction will be held during the 62nd National Football Foundation Annual Awards Dinner in New York City on Dec. 10, 2019.
Click on gallery to see photos from the presentation at the Virginia General Assembly.