Sounds unreal, right? Like something that never happens to real people? Well, it happened to Taylor Ford (Epsilon-Minnesota) . “I got a FaceTime call from a number I didn’t have in my contacts. I answered, and it was both coaches,” Taylor says. “I instantly started to cry. What better way to kickstart my dance career again than with my dream team." Born just outside of Toronto and raised in Minnesota, Taylor looked up to the MVCs for as long as she can remember. Her admiration peaked when she joined the team’s junior cheer program, which gives dancers ages three to 14 the chance to build confidence, develop leadership skills and learn about teamwork, all while performing alongside MVCs. That’s where Taylor met Elizabeth Claude, a cheerleader who made a lasting impression. From giving Taylor a nickname she never forgot to attending her recitals and waving to her at games, Elizabeth made Taylor feel seen, valued and inspired. Now that she’s in Elizabeth’s shoes, Taylor hopes to do the same. “I believe with my experiences as a leader and role model, I can make a meaningful impact and inspire others the way Elizabeth inspired me.” Taylor is drawn to bold, outstanding female leaders who serve and uplift their communities. Take the MVCs, who participate in numerous charities and youth initiatives throughout the Twin Cities, and Alpha Phi, a sisterhood committed to empowering women and advancing opportunities for them through philanthropy. That latter piece is what first attracted Taylor to the Fraternity. “Alpha Phi stood out to me because of its commitment to women’s heart health,” she says. “[The Epsilon Chapter at the University of Minnesota] was the top donating chapter on campus and in the Midwest. I wanted to be part of an organization centered on giving back, and Alpha Phi was the perfect fit.” During her collegiate years, Taylor championed the Foundation’s philanthropic mission and the Fraternity's values by serving in roles like Panhellenic delegate and chapter president. She plans to carry those leadership skills into her rookie season as an MVC. “I’ll also be bringing the Alpha Phi ideal of character with me, as I believe that’s what makes everyone so special. When everyone is their true, most authentic selves, that is when they’re truly living.” When it comes to her weekly routine, this Alpha Phi’s calendar is already spoken for. Taylor works weekdays at UnitedHealthcare as a sales development representative, then heads straight to evening MVC practices three times
TAYLOR FORD (Epsilon-Minnesota) Minnesota Vikings Cheerleader
Imagine this: You’ve been a dancer your entire life, learning the five basic positions of ballet around the same time you’re potty training. You stick with it through childhood and adolescence, mastering technique and versatility. In college, you hit pause to focus on a new chapter. But as graduation nears, tryouts for your dream professional team open up. You go for it, leaning on 18 years of experience. After a grueling audition alongside some of the country’s best dancers, you wait. Then, the news comes: you made the team. You’re officially a Minnesota Vikings Cheerleader (MVC).
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