Gieselle Taylor, Ed.D

Dr. Gieselle Taylor is a student success oriented higher education professional with extensive experience in student success and retention. Most recently serving as the Director of Persistence at MidAmerica Nazarene University (MNU), she oversaw the Academic Success Center while also providing leadership for campus wide student success and persistence initiatives. Prior to joining MNU, Dr. Taylor served as the Director of the Academic Center for Excellence and Success at Emporia State University (ESU), where she was recognized for reaching all-time high retention rates. Throughout her time in higher education, Dr. Taylor has served in several capacities, including student support services, professorial roles, and academic advising. During her time at Metropolitan Community College – Penn Valley, Dr. Taylor was nominated and inducted into the Black Achievers Society of Greater Kansas City in 2016.

Dr. Taylor earned her Doctor of Education Degree from the University of Missouri- Kansas City (UMKC) University of Missouri- Kansas City (UMKC) in May 2026.  Her research focused on the lived experience of racially and socioeconomically diverse students who experience imposter phenomenon. In 2010, she completed her Masters of Business Administration (MBA) in Management Information Systems from Park University. She received her Bachelor Arts in Information Systems from Central College in Pella, Iowa. As a first generation college student who came from a low income family, she enjoys helping students access college and persist to completion.