Taylor Schiestel
Director of the Center for Student Well-Being at the University of Northern Colorado
Age: 28
Location: Milliken
Tell us about yourself, your history and how you came to be where you are now.
I grew up deeply connected to Northern Colorado and the community that shaped my values and purpose. My passion for service began early through my work at the Rodarte Community Center in Greeley, where I witnessed the realities of food insecurity and financial hardship in a very personal way. That experience, along with serving as president of the Greeley Youth Commission, strengthened my commitment to leadership and community impact. I carried those lessons into my years as a student athlete, playing softball at both Langston University and the University of Northern Colorado, where I ultimately returned home to graduate.
Explain your career, achievements and professional highlights.
As director of the Center for Student Well-Being at UNC, I lead initiatives focused on food insecurity, wellness and student support. Through the UNC Bear Pantry, I have served over 1,565 students, supported more than 140 volunteers, helped launch a new pantry space and raised more than $14,000 during its first year of operation. My work has been recognized by CBS News, KUNC, The Colorado Sun, the Greeley Tribune and others. I hold a master’s degree in healthcare leadership and a certification in college student well-being, trauma and resilience.
In what ways do you give back to the community?
I give back through mentorship, advocacy and youth development. Through Justice Necessary, I have volunteered at period-packing events that distribute menstrual and hygiene products to schools across Northern Colorado. I also volunteer with Journey Christian Church as a mentor in the high school girls’ program and support early childhood ministry, helping young people build confidence and purpose. Additionally, I serve on UNC’s Take Back the Night committee, increasing awareness and advocacy for survivors of sexual and intimate partner violence. I recently became the staff advisor for UNC’s Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, furthering my commitment to student leadership, empowerment and belonging.
What do you consider your biggest accomplishment or challenge you’ve overcome, either professionally or personally?
My greatest professional accomplishment has been leading the transformation of the UNC Bear Pantry to address student food insecurity. I helped steward a $310,000 investment, coordinate over 140 volunteers and build a sustainable model serving more than 1,500 students annually. This work strengthened my commitment to creating equitable systems where basic needs are never barriers to student success.
Where do you see yourself in five years? In 10 years?
In five years, I see myself expanding student well-being systems in higher education across Northern Colorado while raising my children and staying rooted in community. In 10 years, I hope to lead statewide initiatives advancing equity, basic needs and student success while modeling work-life balance and service for my family. Personally, I want to raise children who lead with kindness, empathy and responsibility to others, helping shape the next generation of 30 Under 30.
What piece(s) of advice would you give to your younger self?
Trust your instincts and don’t wait to feel ready before stepping into leadership roles. You already have something valuable to offer. Know your worth, even when it is not reflected back. Stay rooted in purpose when the path feels unclear. Keep showing up with consistency and heart even when unseen. Ask for help sooner, build your network intentionally and remember that impact matters more than perfection. Protect your energy because burnout is not required for success.
Tell us something unique about you.
What makes me unique is my resilience and stick-to-itiveness. I left NOCO to play college softball in college, then I transferred to UNC to compete at the Division I level and complete my undergraduate degree. I went on to pursue my master’s degree and discovered I was pregnant six months into the program. I completed my master’s when my son was 10 months old while continuing to grow personally and professionally in my community.
What inspired you to grow the UNC Bear Pantry?
The experiences that shaped my passion for service early in life inspired me to help grow and strengthen the UNC Bear Pantry’s impact. Working with low-income families at the Rodarte Community Center in Greeley opened my eyes to the challenges people face when basic needs go unmet and the difference community support can make. I also believe that college students are at such a pivotal stage of life: They are developing into future leaders, educators, healthcare professionals and community members. I believe that supporting their well-being is an investment in the future of our community.
How do you prioritize self-care while dedicating your time and energy to so many different causes?
For me, self-care starts with staying connected to the people, faith and experiences that keep me grounded. My relationship with God provides perspective and purpose, while my husband and our two children, Raymond and Ivy, remind me what matters most. I also prioritize spending time with the close friends and support system Northern Colorado has brought me. Physical activity remains an important part of my well-being and helps me maintain balance. I have learned that nourishing these aspects of my life allow me to better serve others, lead with intention and sustain the work I am passionate about.
