Alumni Profile: Ralph "RJ" and Alexis Taylor
Newlyweds Ralph “RJ” Taylor and Alexis Worsham Taylor began their love story at Henderson State, like so many others. RJ was a junior when he met Alexis as a freshman. According to the couple, it was probably love at first sight for RJ, but not for Alexis. She really thought he was just playing around, but he proved to be very persistent.
Fast forward to 2021, and the couple are now married and residing in Atlanta, Georgia. RJ received the Alumni Association’s H Award last year, and he is a charter member of the Xi Beta Alumni Group that was officially established this month for the men of Omega Psi Phi, Inc.
Alexis and RJ married last fall and are both working through the pandemic as a healthcare professional and a financial advisor during these unprecedented times.
When did you graduate, and what was your major?
Alexis: I graduated with my bachelor of science in nursing in 2016.
Ralph: I graduated Spring of 2013 with a degree in finance.
Why did you choose Henderson?
Alexis: I chose Henderson because of the small-town vibes. I’m from Searcy, so it felt very similar. Plus, I wasn’t too far away from home.
Ralph: I received a football scholarship.
Who were your favorite professors?
Alexis: My favorite professor, hands down, was Ms. Lynette Smith.
Ralph: Lisa Massey, R.C. Smith, Frank Smith and Martin James.
What is your current occupation?
Alexis: I’m a nurse in the Emergency Department at Emory University Hospital.
Ralph: I’m a Financial Advisor with Edward Jones Investments.
How did Henderson prepare you for your career?
Alexis: Henderson prepared me for my career by providing clinical experience and simulation labs that imitate the real world of nursing.
Ralph: Henderson introduced me to my passion in finance and gave me the tools to be successful.
What is your favorite memory of Henderson?
Alexis: Getting my diploma is my favorite memory of Henderson. Nothing can ever replace the feeling of crossing the stage.
Ralph: Meeting my wife, Alexis.
What other job do you think you’d be really good at?
Alexis: Either a school nurse or a high school Family and Consumer Science Teacher.
Ralph: A football coach.
How do you relax after a hard day?
Alexis: A nice hot shower and catching up on my favorite TV shows, while lying on the couch.
Ralph: Coming home and catching up on the current events.
Who do you admire the most, and why?
Alexis: My mom. With the multiple health challenges she has faced over the last couple of years, she continues to be a statue of hope within her community and family.
Ralph: My mother, because of how hardworking she was after my father passed away. She worked more than one job and took care of my sister and me.
If you could make one rule that everyone had to follow, what would it be?
Both: Treat people how they want to be treated.
What is something you think everyone should do at least once in their lives?
Alexis: Travel out of the country and experience the way others live.
Ralph: Spend at least a day giving back to the less fortunate.