About

meet terri

Washington D.C.-based Department of Defense Senior Executive | ICF-Certified Executive and Lifestyle Coach | Professor, Business Management, Northern Virginia Community College

I became a professional coach to help women design a life where they can shine—trusting their truth to navigate life’s ups and downs. Inspired by incredible women who taught me to stand tall, dig deep and start again, I’ve learned to create harmony and thrive through my life’s challenges. My passion is to help other women do the same. 

I currently serve as a Department of Defense Senior Executive. Throughout my professional career, I’ve directed many large organizations and tackled pivotal national security challenges. My operational background includes leading national security activities of over 900 personnel. I’ve also deployed to Afghanistan as the Senior Language Advisor to the Combined Forces Commander responsible for providing theater-wide foreign language interpreters. During my tenure at the Pentagon, I directed the readiness and career development of over 73,000 personnel, crafting policy and strategies to build critical mission skills. Throughout my professional journey, these experiences taught me the importance of creating a vision of what’s possible, being flexible to navigate through the unexpected challenges, and building teams to achieve results. 

"I coach extraordinary women to realize their potential and design a life of passion, alignment, and purpose."

Teaching has also been a defining part of my journey. I have a Bachelors of Applied Arts and Science, Texas State University, a Masters of Arts, Leadership and Management, Websters University, Missouri, and a Master of Strategic Studies, Air War College, Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama. As a college professor, I taught Business Management and it was my privilege to mentor and inspire future business leaders. 

My story isn’t just about my professional and academic paths. It’s also about the joys and challenges of raising a family. I'm married to a wonderful husband and I’m the proud mom of three children blessed with two wonderful daughters-in-law, all of whom inspire me daily. They fuel my passion for guiding others toward fulfilling their personal and professional goals. My commitment to align my values to design my purposeful life, enriches my coaching where I bring that same dedication to helping women align lives for lasting fulfillment. 

Let’s work together to design a life that inspires and fulfills you. Reach out today and let’s begin to envision the next chapter to add to your life’s journey.

In addition to being a coach, I am a...

Mom

I’m a proud mom of three children and two wonderful daughters-in-law, all of whom inspire me daily with their big dreams and even bigger hearts. 

Runner

This past year, my daughter and I crossed the finish line of the Army Ten-Miler, an unforgettable experience that tested my endurance and celebrated our perseverance. Here's to many more miles ahead! 

Wife

Through every chapter of my life—raising a family, building careers, and embracing new adventures—my unwavering support and partnership with my husband have been a constant source of strength and joy. And, of course, I can't forget our pup, Jasper—aka chief napper and snack thief!

Hostess with the Mostess

I love bringing people together. Hosting allows me to celebrate life’s milestones and build a sense of community. This past summer we had family and friends out to  our home out in the Northern Neck of Virginia. Picture golden sunsets, all-you-can-eat crabs, and nonstop laughs. 

Department of Defense Senior Executive and Air Force Veteran

Throughout my 35-year Air Force career, I have been inspired by remarkable women leaders who have shattered barriers and paved the way for others. 

For more information, click here to visit my official Air Force biography. 

Traveler

This year, I’m off to explore France’s wine regions, soak up the beaches of Honolulu, and eat my way across Italy. It’s less about passport stamps and more about making memories with family and friends. 

"Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away."

— Maya Angelou

Memoirist, poet, and civil rights activist