Marquette University High School proudly honors Terrence “Terry” Kelly with the 2025 Spirit of St. Ignatius Award, presented annually to those who live the Ignatian vision.

He was recognized for his contributions along with fellow Spirit of Ignatius recipients Jeffrey and Sarah Bahr. 

After 11 years in public-school teaching and a master’s in Curriculum and Instruction from UW–Milwaukee, Terry joined MUHS in 1979—thanks to a conversation with legendary coach Dick Basham at a track meet.

Over the next 37 years, Terry served across the school with a characteristic blend of high standards, humor and heart. He taught English and Social Studies, directed Senior Shared Life from 1982–2016, helped develop the Admissions department, supported our retreats, assisted Coach Basham in a storied football program, and coached at every level of track for 35 years.

Terry’s enduring philosophy—every student has untapped potential—animated his classrooms and teams. Thousands of students and athletes encountered a teacher and coach who believed in them, challenged them and showed them how far their gifts could take them.

His excellence has been recognized broadly: Hansen Excellence in Teaching Award (1992), Catholic Financial Life Catholic Educator of the Year (2013), St. Norbert College Alumni Award (2016), WFCA Assistant Coach of the Year (1995), WISTCA District Coach of the Year (1995), WFCA All-Star Game Defensive Coordinator (2007), WFCA Hall of Fame (2008), and MUHS Athletic Hall of Fame (2015).

Terry’s life and vocation have been sustained by his wife of 56 years, Peg, and rooted even more deeply in MUHS through their sons Brian ’90, Peter ’93 and Timothy ’95. Since retiring in 2016, he has continued to serve as a STAR program tutor with his former teaching partner, Luke Meuler; remained active at Holy Apostles in New Berlin; cheered on seven grandchildren; provided fall color commentary for Channel 24’s “High School Football Game of the Week”; and stayed connected to our community through a book club of MUHS friends and colleagues.

For decades, Terry Kelly has modeled cura personalis, magis and a contagious belief in the promise of young people. MUHS is grateful to celebrate his legacy and witness.