Pamela Armistead Terry was born and raised in Richmond, Virginia. She received her B.S. from Hampton University and her MBA from Pfeiffer University. Following her passion for service and education, she became a volunteer with Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools and Habitat for Humanity. She homeschooled her three children and when they transitioned to a traditional school, she remained active in their education by volunteering at their respective schools. Later Pamela became the Volunteer Coordinator for a local maternity home.