In Memoriam – Sir Cyril Taylor (1935-2018)
Earlier this week Sir Cyril Taylor, the founder of ACIS’ parent company, the American Institute For Foreign Study, passed away peacefully at his home in London.
I first met Sir Cyril Taylor in 1986 when AIFS first showed interest in purchasing ACIS. I was warned he took no prisoners and had a way of interrupting you in mid-sentence. All of that and more was true! He took over the room but we got on quite well. He adjusted to my working-class background and my passion for Manchester United more or less!
By the time AIFS and ACIS started working together, Cyril had already made quite a reputation for himself in the political arena. The first time I stepped foot in his office, I was struck by the photographs on the wall of all of the famous people that he knew including the Queen, the Queen Mother, British Prime Ministers, and American Presidents. There he was – popping up in all of the photographs, shaking hands and leading the way. He was the only Sir I ever knew. Twice knighted and proud of it!
Over the years, Cyril softened a little but his wit was always razor sharp and his financial acumen better than most. He had that magic combination. He knew how to make money but most importantly, he invested it in things he cared passionately about. He also knew how to get money from people who had loads of it and put it to good use. He single-handedly resurrected a British education system that was failing.
I will remember meetings in his office, cups of coffee with biscuits, “fireside chats” if you like about politics, personnel, and strategic musings. He was an eccentric guy and he cared deeply and passionately about education and his AIFS family. Cyril would regale us with stories of the early days at AIFS. When he would come to Boston, he would always insist on staying at the Charles Hotel in Cambridge because it was next door to his beloved Harvard University where he had studied for his MBA.
He did not suffer fools. He spoke up in crowded auditoriums if he had a point, and he always had a point! I sat through many lectures with Cyril over at Harvard. He was always looking for new ideas, new ways, and new opportunities. He never stopped learning and he never stopped teaching. We all benefitted from his wise and wacky ways. He liked getting things done, cutting to the chase, and changing direction!
His passing was sudden and unexpected. It will be strange to not hear his voice on my voicemail, to not bump into him in his favorite haunt, his office at 37 Queen’s Gate in London, and not talk to him about gardening and his football team, Arsenal. Rest assured that he was smart enough to build a legacy that will last forever.
Peter Jones In 1978, Peter Jones founded ACIS with a few colleagues, who all believed that travel changes lives. Knowing the important difference between a trip that’s mediocre and one that’s extraordinary, he built ACIS from a deep belief and understanding that ACIS group leaders and participants deserve the best—from itinerary development to hotels to perhaps most importantly, the people hired to guide teachers and students throughout the journey.
What a beautiful tribute to Cyril, Pete!
While in the presence of Sir Cyril J. H. Taylor at the obligatory administrators workshops that were held in Greenwich. it was most clear from the first encounter with this extraordinary gentleman that we all were in the presence of a very seriously dedicated, articulate leader. Sir Taylor reminded us that we were expected to memorize the Administrator Handbook and to follow it intelligently. Once at my assigned posts, La Rochelle mainly but also Paris, I relished the clarity and foresight that had anticipated various potential situations with crystal clear directions for managing emergency medical issues, teacher, student needs, etc.. Sir Taylor’s leadership and expectations provided multiple quality experiences for all involved. Thank you, dear Sir, for inspiring countless teachers and students whose lives were enriched culturally and were truly blessed by your inspiring dedication and unfailing focus on quality and accountability. What an honor to have been a part of your team then and now to see the talented Peter Jones carry forth the gauntlet of superior travel for all involved. Bon courage et bon voyage à tous..
What a touching tribute Peter you made to such a dear friend! You are very articulate and you write with heart and soul. I know you held Sir Taylor in the highest regard and I know he will still be there in many ways for you , as he left a legacy to you and his ACIS family. Travel changes lives and only ACIS can guarantee that to those who experience your dedication and mission. This is a gift to all who travel with you! So sorry for our loss!
I’m so sorry for your loss, Peter! What a beautiful tribute!
Thank you for sharing such beautiful memories.
As a youngster in 1978 I traveled with AIFS. My English professor father was the group leader, and I was along for the six week journey all over Europe with his college students. I think it was the two weeks in Italy that did it–my eyes were opened to the art world, and I became an addicted traveler. I vividly remember so many moments and experiences from that trip. Now I lead student groups, too, and hang out in Florence every chance I get!
I never met Cyril, yet his work profoundly changed my life. His influence will live on in the lives of the thousands of educators and students who travel with AIFS and ACIS.