Marie Clark Taylor’s photo from the Fordham Ram Yearbook in 1941.
Marie Clark Taylor, born in 1911, stands as a pioneering figure in the fields of plant science and education. Her life's work, spanning several decades, left an indelible mark on science education. Let us delve into the remarkable journey of Marie Clark Taylor and her significant contributions to the world of plant science known as botany.
Taylor was born in Pennsylvania in 1911. Her passion for learning led her to pursue higher education, and she earned both a Bachelor's and Master’s degree in Botany from Howard University, a historically black university. For some time, she taught science at a high school in the D.C. area, eventually earning a Ph.D. from Fordham University and becoming the first person to earn a degree in botany from the university. She became a professor at Howard University’s Department of Botany in 1945 and was the head of the department from 1947 to 1976. Taylor's academic achievements, particularly during a time when opportunities for African American women in science were limited, showcased her determination and commitment to her chosen field.
Educational and Professional Journey: Marie Clark Taylor's journey in botany began with a strong educational foundation. Graduating from a historically black university, she later earned recognition for her groundbreaking work in the field. Her academic achievements paved the way for her role as the head of the Department of Botany at Howard University, where she played a pivotal role in shaping the academic landscape.
Leadership at Howard University: As the head of the Department of Botany at Howard University, Taylor demonstrated exceptional leadership. Her tenure witnessed advancements in botanical research, educational programs, and the nurturing of future botanists. Under her guidance, the department became a hub for botanical studies, contributing significantly to the scientific community.
Research on Light Exposure and Plant Flowering: Marie Clark Taylor distinguished herself through her pioneering research on the impact of light exposure on plants and plant flowering, discovering that increasing light increases growth. Her investigations delved into the intricate mechanisms governing these processes, contributing valuable insights to the broader field of botany. This research added to the scientific knowledge base and influenced agricultural practices and horticulture.
Educational Legacy: Beyond her contributions to scientific research, Taylor's commitment to education was a cornerstone of her legacy. As the head of the botany department, she played a crucial role in shaping the academic experiences of aspiring botanists.
Throughout the 1950s-60s, Taylor taught summer institutes as part of the National Science Foundation, where she trained high school biology teachers. She advocated for the use of botanicals in high school biology classes because plants were affordable materials and effective for demonstrating biological processes. In the mid-1960s, President Lyndon B. Johnson even enlisted Dr. Taylor to consult in the U.S. and abroad, thus expanding the NSF program to teachers around the world. (Childs, 2020)
Her dedication to fostering a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment left an enduring impact on students and colleagues alike.
Recognition and Achievements: Marie Clark Taylor's contributions to botany did not go unnoticed. Her work earned her recognition within the academic and scientific communities. President Lydon B. Johnson requested that she spread her work nationally and internationally.
Continued Influence: Marie Clark Taylor's time as the head of the Department of Botany at Howard University has concluded, but her influence endures. The research she conducted and the educational legacy she left behind continue to shape the study of botany and inspire future generations of scientists. Worldwide, greenhouse growers continue to use her work on flowering and light exposure.
In conclusion, Marie Clark Taylor's impact on botany and education is a testament to her dedication, leadership, and pioneering research. Her contributions have left an indelible mark on the academic and scientific landscape, ensuring her place as a trailblazer in the field of botany.
References
Childs, L. (2020). International Day of Women and Girls in Science. https://librarynews.blog.fordham.edu/2020/02/11/international-day-of-women-and-girls-in-science/
Dinsmore, L. (2019). Woman of Firsts: Marie Clark Taylor. https://www.womeninhorticulture.com/post/woman-of-firsts-marie-clark-taylor
Mcleary-Harris, S. (2021). From High School Biology Teacher to Trailblazing Scientist: Remembering Fordham Alumna Marie Clark Taylor. https://news.fordham.edu/fordham-magazine/from-high-school-biology-teacher-to-trailblazing-scientist-remembering-fordham-alumna-marie-clark-taylor/
Pizza, R. (n. d.). Exposing plants to different day lengths changes their flower development. https://projectbiodiversify.org/2020/11/24/marie-clark-taylor/