Terry Waddell-Moenter

Terry Waddell-Moenter is an advisory board member. She was our fundraiser chairperson in 2020.

Terry has an Associates Degree in Education from Mattatuck Community College. She went on to obtain a Bachelors of Science Degree in Corporate Video Communications with a minor in Journalism at Southern Connecticut State University. Terry enrolled in ROTC (Reserved Officers Training Corp), upon graduation she received a commission as a 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Air Force. During her tour of duty at Vandenberg AFB, Terry graduated from Golden Gate University with dual Masters Degree–-an MPA in Human Resources Management and Organizational Management.

Terry served 6 years of active duty at Vandenberg AFB in Lompoc, CA. Her first duty assignment was Strategic Air Command as the Chief of Quality Force. Upon promotion to First Lieutenant, Terry became the OIC (Officer in Charge) of the Social Actions unit that was the OPR (Office of Primary Responsibility) of the EEOC and Sexual Harassment, amongst other Social Action programs. Terry’s last 18 months as a Captain, prior to leaving the Air Force, she was a Public Affairs Officer which her primary responsibility was a spokesperson/liaison to the local media and Vandenberg Air Force Base. 

Presently, Terry is the President/CEO of Brittane’s Designs, as well as a small catering business. She is very involved in local civic organizations and has run for local political office as a Village Trustee. Terry currently serves on the Economic Development Committee for the Village of Gurnee. She also has served on the Gurnee Days committee for a number of years as well.

Terry is the past Commander of the Gurnee American Legion Post 771 (2018-2019), and is the first African–American Commander in its history. Terry has been instrumental in the financial stability as the Events Manager for the Legion and has been a huge catalyst in bringing much needed funding to the Legion to ensure its survival. Terry works to bring various programs to benefit not only the veterans but the community as well. She is a life-time member of  the North Shore Chapter of the Military Officers Association of America. She is a member of the Lake County Wings (Women Interested in Government) group. Terry is an advocate for veterans and serves on the board of the Lake County Veterans Association Commission. She also was a contestant in the Ms. Veteran America 2018 Competition and won an award for raising the most funds in the history of its existence. Terry is a published author of a children’s book. In addition Terry is a noted public speaker.  She has spoken at many civic and charity events advocating for veterans and veteran causes.  

In her spare time, Terry enjoys cooking, traveling and loves people. She resides in Gurnee with her husband John.  She has an adult son, who resides in Sacramento, CA who recently received his Doctorate.