Sir Cyril Taylor

It is with deep sadness that we must inform you that Sir Cyril Taylor, the Founder and Chancellor of Richmond the American International University in London (RAIUL), passed away yesterday at the age of 82.

Cyril founded the American Institute for Foreign Study (AIFS) in 1964 and he remained throughout his life committed to the benefits of international education. He was passionate about and committed to RAIUL and his support and challenging insights will be greatly missed.

According to Bill Gertz, the President and CEO of AIFS: “Cyril founded AIFS in 1964 and was a true visionary in every sense of the word. His life’s work was dedicated to the enrichment of young people through education.  This was his passion…and he was instrumental in transforming the UK secondary school system, working with 10 Secretaries of State for Education towards that goal.  In 1989, Cyril was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II for his dedication and contribution to education, and in 2003, he was advanced to a Knight Grand Cross of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (GBE). “

As members of the university community, we owe Sir Cyril an enormous amount and he will be greatly missed. Sir Cyril was absolutely committed to the future success of the university and this is a responsibility I am sure that we all share.

Our thoughts go out to Cyril’s wife Judy, his daughter Kirsten, and his extended family.