It is with great honor and respect that I join the faculty, staff, cadets, alumni, Boards, volunteers and many others who have helped make Oak Ridge Military Academy the fine prep school that it is. I know we have a lot of work to do and I’m ready to roll my sleeves up and get right into the trenches.

Before accepting the Development position with ORMA, I worked for the American Cancer Society in fund-raising, event management, fostering relationships with four major cancer centers in the Triad as well as working closely with volunteers who are an integral part of the Society. I am also a 10-year survivor of cancer, so I know first hand what it feels like to face challenging, uphill battles and come out victoriously. “When life gives you lemons make lemonade” and that’s exactly the approach I took in my battle against this disease.

I grew up just down the road in Eden (Rockingham County) and graduated from Morehead High School before joining the United States Air Force (1989-1993) and I spent an additional year in the Army Reserves. Serving my country is one of the proudest accomplishments of my life. I served in North Dakota, California and the Philippines. The military experience, much like the skills, challenges and structure cadets at The Ridge adopt and face on a daily basis, had a very positive and significant impact on my life.

I attended Rockingham Community College before transferring to the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, graduating with a BA in Media and Communication Studies in December 2002. I met my wife, Karisa, in college and we’ve been together ever since. We have two beautiful daughters; Cailin and Ella. I have a strong feeling that what little hair I have left on my head will be gone for good before the day comes when they leave for college.

In my spare time, I like to play golf, work in the yard, spend time with my wife, kids and dogs, and volunteer with the American Cancer Society.

Please know that my door is always open and I look forward to the opportunity of meeting every one. I am here to help in every way possible and that is exactly what I intend to do. I always welcome your input and ask for your support and patience as I transition into this new role.

Respectfully,

Terrill M. Sandiford
Director of Development and Alumni Affairs
Oak Ridge Military Academy
(336) 643-4131, ext. 197 - office
(336) 314-1562 - mobile
(336) 643-1797 - fax
tsandiford@ormila.com
http://www.oakridgemilitary.com