Michael Terry - '86

What began with one teacher’s belief in his potential, ultimately guided alumnus Michael Terry towards a career as an orthopedic surgeon, where he now uses his skills to change lives every day.

In fourth grade, young Michael Terry discovered his love for math thanks to the encouragement of Mrs. Olson, a caring Field teacher who allowed him to learn at his own pace. That early support sparked a confidence in his abilities and opened the door to new academic opportunities. Over time, his curiosity and drive grew stronger with the encouragement of other teachers, including Mrs. Levis (Field) and Avi Poster (Holmes), eventually leading him to pursue a path in higher education.

After graduating from Wheeling H.S. in 1990, Terry earned a degree from the University of Illinois in mechanical and bio engineering. Continuing to medical school at the University of Chicago and then to his residency in orthopedic surgery at Cornell’s Hospital for Special Surgery, which he finished in 2003. He completed his fellowship in 2004 in sports medicine and shoulder surgery at The Steadman Clinic in Vail, Colorado. Finally, this alumnus continues to further his education and expand his knowledge by finishing up coursework for an MBA at Northwestern’s Kellogg School of Management.

He is currently a professor of orthopedic surgery at Northwestern University and holds the endowed Snorf Family Professorship. He is also the team physician for the university’s varsity athletics and for the USA Men’s Volleyball Team. Finally, he is the medical director and head team physician for The Chicago Blackhawks, the president-elect for the NHL Team Physician’s Society and will be the orthopedic surgeon for all of hockey in the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, Italy.

This busy alumnus encourages today’s students to make time both for reading and for getting outside to play. “Find a series of books you enjoy and dig in. Find a subject (any subject) that interests you and talk about it with your teachers,” Terry states. “Learning to read opens up infinite fantastic stories, history and understanding of the world around you.” He also advises students to “put down your screens and go outside with friends. Get sweaty running around with your buddies or engage in sports.”

He believes that a balance of learning and activity helps build healthy, curious, and well- rounded lives. Finally, he encourages students to talk to teachers. “Teachers are teachers because they want to help you develop and learn.”

In his spare time, Terry likes to travel, golf and watch his kids grow up. Today, he is a successful professional who still carves out time to enjoy reading, carrying around the same joy and curiosity that first sparked his journey.