Remel Terry is a civic leader, strategist, thought leader, and advocate whose work sits at the intersection of civic participation, equity, community engagement, and systems change. Her leadership is grounded in genuine relationships and a deep belief that communities deserve to be heard, respected, and meaningfully included in the decisions that shape their lives.
A native of the city’s Westside, Terry graduated from Providence St. Mel High School before earning her Bachelor of Science in Aviation Administration with a minor in Business from Lewis University.
She began her career working for more than a decade with Illinois Action For Children, the largest administrator of child care assistance programs in Cook County, in several roles, including Resources Specialist, Community Engagement Coordinator, and Lead Technical Trainer. In addition to time with JP Morgan Chase and the racial equality movement, Equiticity, Terry is currently President of the Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability and President of the NAACP Chicago Westside Branch, where she became the branch’s first female leader in nearly 20 years.
Terry’s guidance and leadership have earned notable recognition, including acknowledgment from the Fred Hampton Scholarship Fund for her work advancing neighborhood revitalization and financial and social equity in Chicago, as well as an official resolution from the Cook County Board of Commissioners, led by the late Commissioner Dr. Dennis Deer, honoring her transformative community engagement across one of the nation’s largest counties.
N’DIGO recently sat down with the dedicated public servant to learn more about her work for and unwavering love of people, community, and the Westside of Chicago!
N’DIGO: In your own words, who is Remel Terry?
Remel Terry: I am a lifelong Chicagoan and proud Westsider, deeply rooted in the people, community, and city that shaped me. I am a blerd who is grounded in who I am, clear about where I come from, and passionate about my people, culture, and politics. I am unapologetically proud to be Black. My lived experiences, love for my people, and connection to my village have shaped my values, strengthened my voice, and guided my purpose. Given the choice, I would return as a Black woman in every lifetime. I also have a deep love for travel and enjoy experiencing different people, cultures, histories, and places across the country and around the world. Each journey broadens my perspective and deepens my appreciation for the beauty and diversity of our world. Still, no matter how far I travel, there is truly no place like home. Chicago will always be at the heart of who I am. We are the best!
What are three words family and friends would use to describe you?
Authentic. Intelligent. Loyal.
As a child, what did you dream of doing for a living as an adult?
I dreamed of becoming the first person to build an airplane out of black box material. The idea came to me after watching a news segment about a plane crash in which reporters discussed the recovery of the black box. I remember thinking: if that material could survive such devastation, why couldn’t an entire airplane be built from it?
How did you start your path into public service?
I got started after Chicago’s 2009 municipal election in the 24th Ward. Attorney Melissa Williams had been a candidate in that race, and although she did not make the runoff, I was deeply inspired by the vision she presented for our community. She spoke to the possibilities I believed existed for the Westside, and her message stayed with me. Unwilling to settle for the options presented, I was moved to organize a write-in campaign on her behalf. At the time, I did not know her personally, but a mutual friend helped connect us. She agreed to meet with us and listen to what we had organized. Although she ultimately decided not to pursue the campaign, that meeting became a turning point in my life.
What appeared to be the end of one effort was actually the beginning of something much greater. Attorney Williams later invited me to an event hosted by the NAACP Chicago Westside Branch. When she introduced me to Karl A. Brinson, who was the branch president at the time, she introduced me as his Political Action Committee Chair. I had not officially accepted the role, but she saw leadership and purpose in me before I fully recognized it in myself. I joined the branch and began serving as Political Action Chair and Second Vice President.
That experience taught me that public service does not always begin with a title, an appointment, or a carefully mapped-out plan. Sometimes it begins with simply caring enough to act. I saw a vision for my community, gathered people around it, and took a step forward. That one step opened the door to a life of advocacy, leadership, and service. The rest is history, but it all began with believing that our community deserved more and deciding that I had a responsibility to help make it happen.
What are some of your day-to-day duties as President of NAACP Chicago’s Westside Branch?
My responsibilities center on relationship management, communication, and strategic coordination. This includes maintaining strong connections with key stakeholders—including residents, elected officials, agency leaders, business owners, and community partners—while staying informed about current events and emerging issues that affect the branch and the communities we serve. Much of the work involves regular conversations, meetings, and collaboration with my cabinet to assess branch business, identify priorities, and determine what needs to move forward.
What are three principles or ideals you try to abide by in your work?
First, I am unapologetic in my pursuit of collective economic vitality for Black people. My work is grounded in expanding access to opportunity, ownership, and the resources needed to build lasting prosperity for our communities.
Second, I believe criticism and concern should lead to action. It is easy to identify what is wrong or to express frustration when our communities do not reflect the fullness of who we are. I try to turn those concerns into a personal responsibility to organize, advocate, and help create meaningful change.
Third, I remain unapologetic about expecting my humanity to be recognized while also extending grace to others. This work requires accountability, but it also requires compassion. I strive to offer grace to myself and the people I encounter, recognizing that we are all navigating challenges while working toward something greater.
How do you balance your work and personal life and practice self-care?
In the words of Deion Sanders, “I keep the main thing the main thing“. For me, that means being intentional about prioritizing my well-being and the well-being of the people I love.
I invest consistently in the trinity of spiritual, physical, and mental health. I strength-train five days a week, remain active in my women’s Bible study group, and make time to care for my mind and spirit. This balance is essential because I believe meaningful service should come from a place of wholeness, not depletion. I strive to operate in this work from my overflow, giving from a place of strength, clarity, and purpose.
The last great book you read?
Peace Beyond Perfection by Christine Hoy
What’s something people would be surprised to know about you?
People are often surprised to learn that I am an introvert. Although much of my work requires me to lead, speak publicly, and engage with people, I value quiet time to reflect, recharge, and process. I can show up confidently when the moment calls for it, but I draw my strength from stillness and meaningful connections.
Best advice you have for the youth?
My best advice to young people is to live fully and abundantly. Do not allow yourself to be limited by others’ judgment, expectations, or hypocrisy. Stay grounded in who you are, trust your purpose, and give yourself permission to grow, make mistakes, and create a life that is true to God’s calling on your life.
Favorite quote or affirmation?
I am the manifestation of my ancestors’ dreams – Remel Terry.
What’s next for Remel Terry?
Taking the world by storm, of course. I am stepping into this next chapter with a bigger vision, bold energy, and no plans to play small. I am ready for new opportunities, greater impact, and spaces that allow me to lead, create, and show up fully. The work continues, the reach expands, and the best is still unfolding. Stay tuned. This is just a preview.
For more information on the NAACP-Chicago Westside Branch,please visit www.cwbnaacp.org.
