Harriet Terry graduated from Cornwall-on-Hudson High School, in New York in spring 1906.

It was the top historically black college in the nation, established after the American Civil War.

[2] After graduation, Terry became chairman of English and History at Gloucester High School in Capahosic, Virginia.

[5] After the war, Terry started teaching English at Alabama Agricultural & Mechanical College, devoted to creating new educators.

[1][2] She was a charter member of Chapel of the Holy Cross Episcopal Church in Normal, Alabama.

In 1949, she established the Epsilon Gamma Omega alumnae chapter in Normal, Alabama, and led it as president.

[2] Terry enjoyed discussions about literature, other good conversation, books, and movies with students and friends.