Terri Savage
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.
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 deeply committed to nurturing collaborative relationships, advancing equitable learning opportunities, and strengthening the connections that support student success. 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.
• Administration and Supervision
• Professional Certified Coach (PCC)
• Johns Hopkins University School of Education
• Salisbury University
• Alumni Visionary Leader Award
• University of Maryland College Success Scholars Program
• Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
• Peninsula Regional Medical Center
What 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 my higher power that I’ve been able to grow, lead, and serve with purpose.
What 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 excellence. I’m most proud of being honored with the Alumni Visionary Leader Award for Special Education from Johns Hopkins University, a recognition that reflects the passion and purpose I bring to serving others. Outside of my professional life, I value creativity and joy, whether I’m decorating a space to make it beautiful, spending time with my 28-year-old son—my “mini-me”—or gearing up to return to one of my favorite pastimes: riding my motorcycle. These parts of my life keep me grounded, inspired, and connected to what truly matters.