Gary Taylor

A leader in transformative education for community and regional planning, Gary Taylor serves as the Program Director and Professor for the ISU Extension and Outreach Community and Economic Development program. He is also the Associate Director of the Institute for Design Research and Outreach, and an Associate Professor and Extension Specialist in the Department of Community and Regional Planning at Iowa State University. With a robust academic and professional background, Taylor is dedicated to advancing the field of land use planning and law. Taylor's academic journey began with a law degree from the University of Nebraska, followed by a Master's in Community and Regional Planning from Iowa State University. His dual expertise in law and planning uniquely positions him to address complex issues in land use and community development. His research interests are deeply rooted in land use planning and law, areas in which he has made significant contributions through both his teaching and extension work. Throughout his career, Taylor has been recognized for his outstanding contributions to the field. He has received prestigious awards from the American Planning Association and the National Association of Community Development Extension Professionals, acknowledging his impactful programming and dedicated service to Iowa communities. These accolades underscore his commitment to fostering sustainable and equitable community development. In addition to his academic and professional roles, Taylor is an active member of the American Institute of Certified Planners. This affiliation reflects his ongoing commitment to maintaining high standards of practice and ethics in the planning profession. His involvement with the institute also provides him with a platform to influence policy and practice at both the state and national levels. Taylor's work is characterized by a collaborative approach, engaging with communities to develop practical solutions to planning challenges. His leadership in the ISU Extension and Outreach program exemplifies his dedication to bridging the gap between academic research and real-world application, ensuring that communities benefit from the latest advancements in planning and development. As a respected educator and practitioner, Gary Taylor continues to inspire students and professionals alike, fostering a new generation of planners who are equipped to tackle the pressing issues facing our communities today. His contributions to the field of land use planning and law are not only transformative but also essential in shaping sustainable futures for communities across Iowa and beyond.