Jocelyn DeVance Taliaferro is one of two Park Faculty Scholars for the Class of 2014. She provides guidance for the class along with her colleague Jim Martin, a professor in the Department of Chemistry. The faculty members were selected by the chancellor to work with the class during their four years at NC State University.

Park Faculty Scholar Dr. Jocelyn DeVance Taliaferro.

Taliaferro is an associate professor of social work. Her research interests include nonprofit advocacy and lobbying, as well as community engagement and organizing. She has most recently served as board chair of the Michael Walton Foundation in Washington, D.C. and as a board member for Hip Hop Haven in Raleigh. She was awarded her Ph.D. from the University of Delaware in urban affairs and public policy.

“I believe that we can all make a difference, no matter our chosen career or vocation. From wherever our social, geographic, or economic position, we can make our part of the world better,” says Taliaferro. “The Park Scholars are exemplary of this belief – I’m not sure who gets the most benefit…me or the students.”