Terry Cole has loyally served his alma mater since 1976 with over 21 of those years in the athletic department. In 1979 Terry was hired as a academic counselor for the Division of Intercollegiate Athletics and his natural ability to relate and motivate student-athletes earned him a promotion to a department head less than one year later. In 1992 Terry was again recognized for his excellence in counseling student-athletes as he was promoted to Associate Director of Athletics for Academic Affairs. Most recently, Terry was named the Senior Associate Director of Athletics with expanded responsibilities in the day to day operations of the entire athletic department. An expansive list of Who's Who in Fighting Illini athletic lore can count Terry Cole among their most trusted mentors, counselors, friends and supporters. Those that are familiar with Terry's character believe it's no surprise that Terry has spent the bulk of his career serving the student first and the athlete second.