Terry Ingram, 25 Years

Tell us about your career at Emory.

I began my career in the Department of Psychology as a senior secretary. During my time there, I served on the board of the College Staff Consortium and eventually held the role of President. In 2006, I applied for and was offered a position in the Department of Mathematics as the academic services coordinator. I currently serve as the senior academic degree program coordinator.

What are some of your favorite memories of your time at Emory?

I remember attending my first Staff Fest in 2001. There was so much to do and so many prizes being given away. The lines were, and still are, long for the caricature artists and the henna tattoo artist. Some standout memories over the years include Arnold Schwarzenegger delivering the commencement address and the Dalai Lama visiting campus. I have also enjoyed meeting incoming graduate students and watching them grow throughout their academic journeys. I am proud of each one of them. I have collected so many memories over the years, far more than I could ever put into words.

What are some of the most significant changes you have witnessed over the course of your career?

There have been quite a few. When I first started, we were using the FAS system, which later transitioned to PeopleSoft and Compass. As a graduate coordinator, I have seen the shift from collecting paper applications to using a range of digital application systems. I remember when Woodruff Circle did not exist, and when Bishop’s Hall was torn down to make way for the new School of Theology building.

Is there anything you miss from back in the day?

I have spent a lot of time reflecting on this question. There are certainly things I miss, though I will not go into detail. What I can say is that those memories make you pause and wonder, if we had known then what we know now, would things have unfolded differently? Still, I am proud to continue my journey at Emory.

What do you hope for the future of Emory?

I hope Emory continues to empower its students to reach their fullest potential, while also supporting the faculty and staff who help make that possible. I also hope it remains committed to its outreach programs and the broader community it serves.

Anything else you would like to share?

I am grateful to continue working at Emory. The connections I have built over the years with fellow staff members mean a great deal to me. It always brings a smile to my face when I run into someone I have not seen in a while.