Courtesy of Mae Osman, Friend and Colleague
Paula Moore Tabor was a beautiful and ever-vibrant spirit that lit up a room with her presence. She was a close friend, and colleague that provided me with love and encouragements. Paula was well liked and respected by her colleagues in Institute Advancement. Paula carried a light that warmed every room, an energy that lifted all spirits, and a love that stretched far and wide. She had a brilliant mind and beautiful heart. She was forever optimistic, honest, kind, open, and vulnerable.
Paula made an enduring contribution to Rensselaer with her work in Institute Advancement. She was a leader and advocate in field of education. Paula spent 27 years of her career working on issues of inclusion, equity, and diversity in higher education. She consulted with trustees, faculty, and students. Paula took great pride in reconnecting students of color who felt disaffected.
Paula was a significant part of my life as well as others in the Division. In addition to being a colleague at Rensselaer, Paula and Olivia Wang worked closely outside of Rensselaer. During the pandemic, Olivia and her family decided to write children’s books on diversity, equity, and inclusion. Paula was the person who wrote the FORWARD on their six-book series in 2020. As Olivia describes it best, “it is rare to find a friend who has so many similar interests.”
Paula was born and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio and graduated from Williams College with a B.A. in Art History. In addition, Paula earned an Ed.M.in Administration, Planning and Social Policy from Harvard University. She was the beloved wife of Geoffrey Thomas Tabor, the dear mother of Anna Kelsey Tabor and Geoffrey Trenton Tabor, and an adored sister of Pamela (Moore) Williams and Richard Moore. She was affectionately known as Aunt PauPau to Arielle Williams Stegeman, Alexis Williams, Amir Williams, Vanessa Moore, and Miles Moore.
She will be sorely missed and will be forever in our hearts.
