Building Legacy Through Leadership: Where Purpose Meets Perseverance

Terrance Branch's journey is one of determination, vision, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. As the Chief Information Officer for the Office of Research Science (ORS) and the Office Research and Facilities (ORF) at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Terrance has become a transformational leader, redefining what it means to lead in the digital age. Since June 2022, he has also taken on the role of Acting Associate Director for Emergency and Response Services in the Division of Physical Security, marking yet another chapter in his remarkable career. NIH, the nations medical research powerhouse, has a storied history of over a century, driving scientific breakthroughs that have improved countless lives. In just two years, Terrance has left an indelible mark on this institution, steering it toward a future where innovation and technology are seamlessly integrated. With his visionary digital roadmap, he has rebuilt the organization from the ground up, unifying information and operational technologies, securing new investments, and fostering a culture of trust and collaboration among leadership. But it wasn’t just about technology; Terrance recognized the importance of people in this transformation. He revitalized the workforce, retaining top talent and nurturing a positive workplace culture that empowers individuals to thrive. His leadership extended beyond the technical, offering professional development and creating an environment where every team member felt valued and motivated. Terrance’s journey is filled with milestones, but one stands out as particularly monumental. In 2009, he played a pivotal role in the base reallocation alignment for a $1.1 billion, 1.7 million-square-foot Department of Defense healthcare facility. This project, which integrated $100 million in cutting-edge technology, had no blueprint or roadmap. Yet, through meticulous coordination and a commitment to innovation, Terrance led the team to create a facility that rivaled the best in the private sector. Throughout his career, Terrance has consistently delivered results that speak for themselves. In his first year as CIO for ORS and ORF and NIH, he achieved IT contract savings of $4 million and went on to reduce operating costs by $4.9 million within three years. His keen eye for cost optimization identified opportunities that generated an additional $6 million in savings. Moreover, his leadership in cybersecurity ensures that NIH meets all federal compliance standards reducing vulnerabilities and setting a clear path to secure all systems under his purview. Terrance’s effectiveness as a leader isn’t just about numbers; it’s about people. With a 97% retention rate in critical IT management positions and a 95% average customer satisfaction rating, he has built a team that is stable, high-performing, and deeply committed to excellence. His ability to foster a culture of transparency, collaboration, and accountability has made him a standout leader and a true motivator. The roots of Terrances success run deep. Growing up in Flint, Michigan, he harbored a burning desire to succeed, even when college seemed out of reach. At eighteen, he joined the United States Air Force, where he spent a decade serving his country as a Quality Assurance Evaluator. It was during this time that Terrances determination to build a better life for his family led him to juggle multiple jobs while earning his Bachelor of Applied Science in Information Technology. One defining moment in Terrance’s journey came when he was denied a position he coveted. Rather than being discouraged, he vowed never to let a lack of skills or knowledge hold him back again. That promise to himself fueled his relentless pursuit of excellence, and he soon found himself rising through the ranks. Starting as a manager of an information desk, Terrance quickly impressed his superiors, leading to promotions to Network Engineer, CTO, and ultimately, CIO.

Terrance is quick to attribute his success to his faith, which sustains and guides him through every challenge. A devoted husband and father of three daughters, he believes that his steps, both professional and personal, have been divinely ordered. His thirst for learning and commitment to seizing every opportunity have propelled his career in ways that few could have imagined. Terrances authenticity is both refreshing and inspiring. His leadership style is rooted in genuine connection, and those who meet him quickly understand why he is so effective. His advice to others is simple yet profound: “You can achieve anything you put your mind to. Don’t be afraid of it. Don’t be afraid of disappointing others based on your success. Always have your elevator pitch ready. ”Today, Terrance has realized his childhood dream of success, but he defines it far beyond job titles and accolades. For him, success is about leaving a positive legacy, both professionally and personally. As he looks to the future, Terrance and his wife are planning their next chapter—a family-owned business, Branch Business Strategies (BBS), LLC, which their daughters can one day manage. Terrance Branch is a leader we honor, salute, and for whom we give thanks; His journey is a testament to the power of faith, determination, and the unwavering belief that one can rise to greatness, no matter where they begin.