WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. – Few student-athletes have left a legacy on the hilltop quite like Emily Taylor, whose remarkable career helped elevate West Liberty women's golf into one of the premier programs in the WVIAC.

From 2007 to 2011, Taylor established herself as one of the most decorated golfers in conference history. A rare four-time First Team All-WVIAC selection, she played a pivotal role in leading the Hilltoppers to three conference championships during her career.

Her senior season in 2010-11 served as the perfect exclamation point.

Competing at the challenging Canaan Valley Golf Course, Taylor delivered one of the most dominant performances in WVIAC Tournament history, winning the individual title by 10 strokes. Her commanding victory powered West Liberty to the team championship and secured her WVIAC Player of the Year honors, cementing her place among the program's all-time greats.

Taylor graduated in 2011 with a degree in Business Administration with a focus in Sports Management, carrying with her not only accolades but memories that still resonate years later.

"There are so many memories when I reminisce about my time on the hilltop, it's hard to pick just one," Taylor said. "I would definitely say the moments made on the golf course with my teammates. We won three out of four conference championships while I was on the team, and my senior season winning Player of the Year will always be special."

Today, Taylor resides in Mentor, Ohio, where she works with Alera Group. She and her husband, Jason, are raising their growing family, recently welcoming their daughter, Ella, to join their son, Jordan.

While life has taken her off the course, Taylor says the lessons and relationships built at West Liberty continue to shape her journey.

"West Liberty was the foundation for some of the strongest friendships that I still have to this day," she said. "It prepared me for success on and off the course."

Taylor credits her development to the guidance of coaches Karen Waialae and Eric Burkle, along with the support of teammates who helped create lifelong memories. She also points to professors like Dr. Turrentine as influential figures who made a lasting impact on her academic experience.

Even years after graduation, her connection to the hilltop remains strong.

"I still find myself following all athletics and attending homecoming when I can," Taylor said. "Whenever someone asks where I went to college, I say West Liberty University with a smile on my face."

For current Hilltoppers, Taylor's advice is simple but meaningful:

"Enjoy your time at West Liberty. It truly is a special place. Be present, enjoy the small moments, and stay involved. Those memories will stay with you forever."

From championship banners to lifelong friendships, Emily Taylor's story is a testament to what it means to be a Hilltopper—both during her time on campus and long after.

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Q&A with Emily Taylor

Sport you played at West Liberty
Women's Golf (2007–2011)

Major
Business Administration (Sports Management)

Years at West Liberty
2007–2011

What are you doing now?
Currently residing in Mentor, Ohio. Recently joined Alera Group and have been there for a little over a year. My husband, Jason, and I recently welcomed our second child, a daughter, Ella (April 6). We also have a son, Jordan (2).

Favorite memory of West Liberty
There are so many memories, but the moments on the golf course with my teammates stand out the most. Winning three conference championships and earning Player of the Year my senior season will always be special. Those bonds and memories last forever.

Advice to current athletes or students
Enjoy your time at West Liberty—it truly is a special place. Be present, enjoy the small moments, help others, and stay involved. The memories you make will stay with you forever.

What does it mean to be a West Liberty alum?
West Liberty gave me lifelong friendships and prepared me for success on and off the course. It provided the opportunity to compete at the Division II level while earning my degree and building a foundation for my future.

Most influential coaches or mentors
Coaches Karen Waialae and Eric Burkle both had a big impact, pushing me and my teammates to be our best. Dr. Turrentine was also an incredibly influential professor who truly cared about his students.




West Liberty University blends a small-town environment with a comprehensive college experience, fostering students' aspirations through hands-on learning, personalized support, and unique academic programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Learn more at westliberty.edu.