Terry Lynne Harris
has operated the switchboard at Fuller Theological Seminary’s Pasadena, Calif.,
campus for more than 15 years. From Payton Hall, Terry’s calm, warm voice is, for
some, the first point of contact with Fuller. She is known on campus as the
“The Voice of Fuller.” It’s an unofficial title she wears with pleasure.
Born and raised in Los Angeles, Terry moved to Altadena, a
city above Pasadena, when she was 12 years old. She was attending a bible study
at the home of friends when she learned of an open position at Fuller. Terry
had spent about 14 years as a Certified Interior Designer but she was ready for
a change and drawn to work at the seminary that she describes now as “family.” Over
the years, she has been amazed by the many Fuller connections she finds
wherever she goes.
Fuller is a
richer community thanks to Terry’s passion for art – and life. While working at
Fuller, she completed a Master’s Degree in Human Development from Pacific Oaks
College. But her love of art always bubbles to the surface: “I just love the
stately Victorian mansions of the Pasadena campus. Visitors often comment that
it is a haven in the midst of the big city.” One year, her love for these
mansions, expressed through her gift as an illustrator, caught the attention of
Fuller’s President’s Cabinet, who chose to use her artwork of the mansions on
their Christmas cards.
Although Terry
lives and breathes art, she is quick to point out that her interests are varied.
She is also involved in Toastmasters International; Top
Ladies of Distinction (a professional humanitarian organization); the Outreach committee
at her church; a Miniature Club; aerobics; reading; and crocheting.
Terry views her role
at Fuller broadly: “I love
my job as the voice of Fuller Seminary. I am serving the Lord as well as
serving the faculty, staff and students.” Terry was honored by receiving the
All Seminary Council Service Award for 2008-2009.
Indeed, Fuller students have found Terry to also be
something of an informal counselor. With a heart as warm as her voice, she is
often reaching across her desk to hold hands and pray, or drawing alongside a
student as they share challenges and heartaches. She muses, “I have become a
sounding board for many students. Many times they need comfort, too. It’s my
ministry to them. I think the Lord has placed me here to offer encouragement.”
Explaining why she supports Fuller, Terry cites the
seminary’s global reputation for academic excellence. She also emphasizes the
importance of equipping leaders to spread the gospel worldwide.
Terry is enthusiastic about her financial support for
Fuller: “I set up automatic monthly giving to the Fuller Fund because I feel called
and privileged to help support an organization that benefits mankind. Giving to
the Fuller Fund is a practical way to help a ministry that serves others. And
you have the satisfaction of knowing that you are serving the Lord in the gift
of giving.”
Certainly not
everyone can say they are the “voice” of their workplace, but in Terry’s case,
the title is well deserved. With her passion for the mission of Fuller, her
heart for the students of Fuller, and her own personal blend of ministry,
creativity and excellence, she represents Fuller on every level.
Reflecting on
her time working at Fuller, Terry shares, “I enjoy working at Fuller Seminary
because of the diverse population and the fellowship of other believers…My
experience at Fuller Seminary has been deeply fulfilling.”