Columbia High School senior Rori Tayler ’26 and School Social Worker Audra Di Bacco were recognized in the 40th annual Capital Region Students and Teachers Who Make a Difference awards. The recognition is sponsored by the Capital Area School Development Association (CASDA) and celebrates graduating seniors for their academic achievements, community service and leadership.

Students are nominated by their school and then that student selects a teacher or staff member who has had a significant influence on their education.

Rori Tayler ’26

Rori Tayler ’26 is an exceptional senior at Columbia High School. After relocating from Panama during her junior year, Rori quickly channeled her personal transition experience into impactful leadership by founding the school’s New Student Ambassador Program to support incoming students. Her diverse background spans enrollment in an International Baccalaureate (IB) program, participation in international service trips, and active leadership in the Ethnic Coalition Club, Student Council, and Unified Basketball. Recognized for her empathy, adaptability, and initiative, Rori consistently thrives in diverse environments and leads with a strong commitment to service and community building. Rori is set to attend the University at Buffalo in the fall to double major in Psychology and Spanish.

Audra Di Bacco

Mrs. Di Bacco has given me a direction for my future. She is incredibly hardworking. I see her work with a variety of students while coaching Unified Basketball after school. She builds strong relationships with the students she works with. Additionally she gives me responsibilities and I appreciate the trust she has in me. Through her example and qualities, I feel inspired to pay it forward and support students with high needs in the future.

Congratulations to Rori and Mrs. Di Bacco!