Outstanding South Student Receives Award from Mobile’s Midtown Optimist Club
Posted on February 3, 2026 by Kerry Cohen
A student in the University of South Alabama College of Education and Professional Studies was recently recognized with a medallion award from the Mobile Midtown Optimist Club for excellence in academics, leadership and community service.
Isaiah Taylor, a second-year graduate student in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, received the honor during the organization’s monthly meeting on Wednesday, January 28, 2026. The award recognizes South students who exemplify the Optimist Club’s mission of bringing out the best in themselves and others.
Taylor holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and is actively engaged in service both on campus and in the community. He works with the University of South Alabama’s athletic program as a mental performance trainer, provides performance training for the boys and girls basketball teams at LeFlore High School and serves as founder and president of the Sport Psychology Club. Taylor is also a graduate intern at the University Counseling and Wellness Center, where he provides mental health services to college students.
“This recognition reflects Isaiah’s work ethic and his commitment to learning, leadership and service,” said Dr. Angelia T. Barlow, dean of the College of Education and Professional Studies. “We are proud to see him honored by the Mobile’s Midtown Optimist Club who share the same spirit of service that is at the heart of the College and what we strive to instill in every student.”
“This honor is not just about me,” Taylor said. “It reflects the mentors, classmates and community partners like the Midtown Optimist Club who have invested in my journey and inspired me to lead through service.”
The Mobile Midtown Optimist Club honors one University of South Alabama student with a medallion award on the last Wednesday of each month.