John brings organizational structure, systems expertise and management experience to the nonprofit organization.  As a lifelong resident of New York, John loves the culture and diversity found throughout Long Island.  Going back as far as High School, John always knew that he wanted to be a Mechanical Engineer.  After graduating from Brooklyn Technical High School, John enrolled at Staten Island Community College and earned his Associate Degree in Applied Sciences.  Subsequently, he earned his Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from City College in New York and ultimately, his Master of Science in Nuclear Engineering from Polytechnic Institute of NYU. 

Throughout John’s career at Long Island Lighting Company and Brookhaven National Laboratory, he excelled in operations, technical regulations and compliance, nuclear technical support, as well as management and training.  “I am passionate about operations and getting things done, but more importantly about getting things done in the proper order.  Working alongside colleagues and scientists in systems management--which included testing and performance--were my everyday responsibilities.”  John retired from Brookhaven National Laboratory in 2010, after a 40+ year career in Engineering. 

As an active member of First Presbyterian Church of Port Jefferson since 2015, John accepted responsibilities of Church Elder and Board Member.  “The mission of the church has always revolved around outreach into the community and that is why Noah’s Ark was originally formed back in the 1990’s. There was a need for infants through Pre-K to have quality and affordable childcare in the Port Jefferson community.  Over the years Noah’s Ark has flourished, but Covid had a severe impact.  Suddenly, children were at home and the Day Care was struggling financially.” 

Because of John’s involvement on the Church Board, he became aware of the situation that Noah’s Ark was facing.  He joined the Board of Noah’s Ark in 2023 and was instrumental in addressing the situation through financial recommendations, fundraising, additional structure, defined responsibilities and staff development.  “We are in a stronger position due to the actions we have taken, and we now have an online presence through our website and social media.  This has resulted in a steady increase in child enrollment.”   Noah’s Ark prides itself on their ‘family-oriented and hands-on culture’ which differentiates them from the ‘sterile’ environment found in most corporate or franchise day care settings.

As Board Chair, John Taylor is dedicated to moving Noah’s Ark forward and ensuring that follow-up action items are completed.  “The Board meets once a month, and our decisions reflect an alignment regarding our philosophy to serve families and children with respect, transparency and support.  Several of the Board Members have or previously had children or grandchildren attend Noah’s Ark Day Care.  This speaks to our level of confidence in the quality of childcare and education provided as well as the faith we have in our Director, Venetta Jones, along with our teachers and staff.  Collectively, we are all here to serve, as that is what we do best!”