In Conversation
Terri Savage for Bold. Brilliant. Unstoppable.
Read the transcript
Terri Savage, EdD: Speaker: Terri Savage, Educational Consultant, Adjunct Professor, University Intern SupervisorWhat does being an Influential Woman mean to you?Terri Savage: Hm, well, it's certainly not about the titles I had or even the volume of work that was on my plate. Some people think that the jobs, like the task behind the titles drive how much influence someone has. But for me, those things didn't matter so much. Being an influential woman was more about the way I showed up in my workspace each and every day. Uh, I think an influential woman understands that her impact grows out of the intersections of, um, Let's say confidence and compassion. What is said to people matters, but how it comes across is even more important in my opinion. And actually, I don't measure influence by how many people hear the words coming out of my mouth, but rather how many people leave stronger or um more clear, uh, more courageous, simply because of my presence. To me, that's influence.What's one piece of advice you would give to younger women chasing their dreams?Terri Savage: Piece of advice I'd give to younger women chasing their dreams, I'd say stop chasing and start charting. Dreams shouldn't be chased, but some might think if you run real fast to get to your dreams, it's a good thing, but I'd offer, you might be running so quickly that you miss what the race is intending to reveal to you. Plus, if we wanna have enough energy and reserve, you don't wanna exhaust yourself in the chase. Keep that energy in store so that you can Chart a real intentional path and then take real intentional steps toward the dream. So, yeah, pacing is important and sometimes it can even be life changing. So, yep, nope, don't chase, chart and move with clear intention.
Her Story
About Terri
Dr. Terri Savage (she/her) is an accomplished Educational Consultant, Connections Coach, Adjunct Professor at Johns Hopkins University, and University Supervisor with the University of Maryland. Her career is driven by a lifelong commitment to ensuring that young people—particularly those in rural and underserved communities—learn in environments that honor their diverse strengths and meet their individual needs. Drawing from her own childhood experiences, she has dedicated her life’s work to advancing inclusive practices, expanding access, and supporting leaders in creating educational systems where every child can thrive. With more than 30 years of experience across four Maryland school systems—St. Mary’s, Prince George’s, Montgomery, and Howard—Dr. Savage has served in a wide range of impactful roles. Her leadership journey includes positions as Chief Academic Officer, Executive Director of Special Education, Regional Special Education Specialist, Elementary Instructional Facilitator, K–12 Curriculum Supervisor, and university faculty member. She has guided teams of more than 150 professionals, overseen services for thousands of learners from birth through age 21, and managed multimillion-dollar budgets while strengthening policy, program development, and instructional excellence across diverse educational settings. Dr. Savage holds a Doctorate in Special Education from Johns Hopkins University, Superintendent I and II endorsements, and certifications in Administration and Supervision as well as Professional Coaching. She is also the proud recipient of the Johns Hopkins University School of Education Alumni Visionary Award in Special Education, an award to honor her commitment and impact in the field. Today, Dr. Savage continues her mission by partnering with educators, school systems, and communities as a consultant dedicated to leadership development, inclusive and special education, differentiated and specialized instruction, and the growth of teachers and paraprofessionals. She is also now engaged in global eduction and deeply committed to nurturing collaborative relationships, advancing equitable learning opportunities, and strengthening the connections that support student success in every space. As she steps into this next chapter of service, Dr. Savage remains inspired by the belief that meaningful change begins with compassion, courage, and a steadfast commitment to doing what is best for all learners.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Terri
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the unwavering support of my mother, who encouraged me to pursue higher education and opened the door to my career in education. Growing up with family members who lived with disabilities deeply shaped my perspective and inspired my commitment to advocacy and inclusive practices for students with special needs. Above all, my faith in God has guided every step of my journey. I’ve worked hard along the way, but I know it is through God that I’ve been able to grow, lead, and serve with purpose.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Nearly 30 years ago, my mentor told me "every moment is interview moment" so we should approach every conversation, presentation, etc. as such. You never know who is listening, who you will help with your knowledge, or why they need to hear from YOU specifically. Since that time, I have reshared these words of wisdom with many others.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Get out of your own way! Do not hesitate to pursue dreams and goals because you believe you are not "ready". Instead, move forward and pick up what you need along the way...before, during, and after you land that opportunity.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenges right now are attracting servant hearts to the field and compensation to help communicate how valued they are in the profession. For our students and families, the depleting budgets are difficult to navigate at times. The opportunity to reimagine how we pool and coordinate resources to address the needs of diverse student populations leave us with hope.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me—both in my work and in my personal life—are authenticity, gratitude, and a deep commitment to serving others.
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