Teri Thompson began working for the College in May 2011, bringing with her over 20 years of administrative and creative-arts based experience with non-profit organizations and higher education institutions. As Vice President for Strategic Initiatives, she oversees the College’s relationship with an external funding partner, providing team-based leadership for the Administrative Committee and campus community related to the identification of institutional priorities, strategic planning for potential grant-funded initiatives, and collaborative development of programming to support Berea’s students throughout their matriculation. In addition, she oversees areas of the College that provide meaningful and effective outreach to the Appalachian region, including Partners for Education, Brushy Fork Institute, and Grow Appalachia.

Born and raised in Colorado, Teri received a Bachelor of Music Education degree from the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley, Colorado, and a Master of Music degree in Vocal Performance from the University of Kentucky. As her schedule permits, she teaches voice lessons to a small studio of Berea College students and also performs in the area on occasion.