University community remembers researcher Taylor Roth

LAWRENCE — The University of Kansas community is remembering Taylor Roth, an associate researcher with KU’s Center for Public Partnerships & Research (CPPR). Roth died April 19 at age 32 after a 13-year battle with brain cancer.

Roth held a doctorate in child psychology from the University of Nebraska. She began working at CPPR in August 2023 following a postdoctoral position focused on translating research to policymakers.

Roth worked as a member of the Impact Metrics and Dissemination Team on projects investigating the needs of the early childhood system and workforce, addressing the needs of pregnant mothers with substance use disorders, and identifying new venues to disseminate CPPR’s research and partnerships with communities. 

Colleagues describe Roth as passionate about supporting families of children with disabilities. As a writer, she was straightforward and concise, and she cared about conveying complex information clearly without obscuring relevant details.

As a colleague, Roth is remembered as “warm, cheerful and funny,” displaying an openness and eagerness to take on new projects and being supportive of her colleagues. Roth loved being part of a team and found genuine joy in her role, colleagues said, and took pride in the work and mission of CPPR.

In her new employee video, Taylor spoke of her love for her parents, her cat and baking “a mean ciabatta.” She was also active in raising money for brain cancer research. To make a donation in her memory, visit Head for the Cure.

A celebration of life is planned for May 11 in Plano, Texas.