Taylor Dicranian enters her fourth season as a member of the Russell Sage College softball team in 2021-22. She enjoyed a breakout season for the Gators in 2021, winning 15 games in the pitching circle, while batting .488 with 41 hits, 13 doubles a home run and 20 runs batted in. Dicranian was named an All-Empire 8 first team selection as a utility player in 2021.
A native of Bennington, VT, Dicranian also serves as Russell Sage's Student-Athlete Advisory Committee and is a business health sciences major with a concentration in occupational therapy. She has a 3.45 grade-point average was named to the Empire 8 President's List for academic excellence.
Taylor Dicranian - Empire 8 Gives Back
Institution: Russell Sage College
Sport/Position: Softball/Pitcher
Academic Major: Health Science Accelerated to Occupational Therapy
GPA: 3.45
Class Year: Senior
Community Service Roles:
- Volunteer at the Freihofer's Run for Women
- Help organize and hand out food at local food drives
- Volunteer at local youth sports in my hometown
- Donate school supplies to the local elementary schools
Why did you join SAAC? What was your goal when joining?
I joined SAAC because I love to volunteer and make a difference in the athletic community at Russell Sage. I wanted to help around not only my campus community but the general community as well.
What projects are you currently working on in your campus community?
We have developed many different projects we would like to get done in our campus community. One project I am a part of is organizing a toy drive for the local children in the community. Our goal is to improve the campus by lengthening dining hall and library hours, continue updating facilities, and creating more cohesion between the general student population and student athletes. My softball team and I do a toy drive around Christmas which we will do this year as well.
What's the biggest challenge you are facing with these projects? COVID restrictions, only virtual, fundraising, etc.?
Last year during COVID many of our projects were put on hold. We struggled organizing projects due to the restrictions. The softball team did a toy drive at Christmas. For SAAC, we did a virtual breast cancer walk in the fall semester.
How do you stay connected with your college community under COVID guidelines?
I try to be very active on campus with my busy schedule. I like to attend events that are put on for the students and go to the athletic events. As a team we have social media platforms that we can keep up to date with everything on campus and update the community about our team.
What is Your Proudest Community Service Achievement?
My proudest community service achievement thus far was volunteer at the Freihofer's Run for Women. This event touched my heart and was so inspirational. I can't wait to volunteer again.
What Role has Softball Played in your Personal Development?
Softball has shaped me into the person I am today. It has taught me how to adapt to change, face challenges head on, and be confident in myself. Softball is a game of failure which has taught me how to bounce back quickly from mistakes and own up to my actions. I have developed my leadership skills by being approachable, leading by example, and helping others.
Why Did You Decide to Attend Russell Sage?
I decided to attend Russell Sage for many reasons! I loved the small campus and small class sizes. They had the program I was interested in. The girls on the softball team were so welcoming as well. I just knew this was the school for me.
How has Playing Collegiately and in the Empire 8 Prepared You For Life After College?
It has prepared me to face challenges head on and achieve goals. I have learned better communication skills and how to work well with others.
Favorite Athletic Memory from Your Time in College: Advancing to the Empire 8 Semifinals last spring.
What is Your Ultimate Professional Goal (Where Do You See Yourself in the Future)?
I see myself practicing in pediatric occupational therapy in the Capital Region. I see myself coaching softball as well.
Favorite Professional Team: Boston Red Sox
Favorite Movie: Wizard of Oz
Favorite TV Show: Pretty Little Liars
Last TV Show You Binge Watched: The Circle
Favorite Food: Margherita Pizza
Favorite Ice Cream Flavor: Coffee
One Thing Most People Do Not Know About Me: Nothing because I am an open book.
Advice to Younger Student-Athletes on Why You Chose to Play a Collegiate Sport and Why Playing A Sport and Getting Involved With SAAC is So Important/Beneficial?
I entered a community where I was welcomed with opened arms. I had a set of people who wanted the best for me and could guide me when I needed help. Being a student-athlete taught me how to time manage and deal with adversity. SAAC has helped me get involved not only with the local community, but also the campus community. I get to hear what the other athletic teams are going through. SAAC has given me a voice.
