Terry Cottrell is an accomplished information technology and planning professional with decades of experience in academia. Cottrell holds a Doctor of Education in Instructional Technology from Northern Illinois University, a Master of Business Administration in Management from the University of St. Francis, and a Master of Science in Library and Information Science from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Cottrell's Bachelor of Arts degree in English Language and Literature, also from the University of St. Francis, gave him a strong foundation in communication and literacy that he has carried throughout his career.

Cottrell has held various roles at the University of St. Francis, including VP of Information Technology & Planning, VP of Operations, Planning & Technology, CIO, Dean of Academic Technology & Library Services, Library Director, and Assistant Library Director. Cottrell has also taught as an instructor and course developer at the University of St. Francis and Northwestern University, among other institutions, and has served on the board of various organizations, such as HData, Consortium of Academic and Research Libraries in Illinois, and the Plainfield Public Library District. Additionally, Cottrell has contributed columns to EMERALD PUBLISHERS and has worked as an admissions reviewer at the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy.

Cottrell's strengths in Futuristic, Deliberative, Competition, Focus, and Learner aid in his ability to envision, plan, compete, and stay focused on the future while also learning and adapting to changes in the industry. His education and professional experience make him a valuable asset in the fields of information technology, academia, and leadership.