From the bustle of Wall Street to the vibrant classrooms of NIU, Terrence “Terry” Horan, ’86, has had a career that is as inspirational as it is impactful.
As a past president and CEO of STIHL Incorporated and currently serving on the company’s board of directors, Horan’s vast repertoire of professional experiences uniquely positions him to impart wisdom. Yet, among his myriad accomplishments, what stands out most is his commitment to volunteering and nurturing the next generation of leaders as part of the “Executive in Residence” series for NIU’s Executive MBA program.
“I graduated from NIU in 1986 with a B.S. in marketing,” Horan said. “Over 37 years, I have dedicated my professional career to leading brands in the hardware and home improvement space. But it’s my time at NIU that shaped my foundational years, preparing me for the roles I undertook.”
Horan’s recurring visits to NIU’s classrooms are very meaningful to him.
“I’ve always felt a calling to give back,” he said. “Around 2000, I reached out to NIU, offering to help in any form. From guest lectures to one-on-one mentorships, my aim has been to bring real-world experiences to the classroom.”
His dedication to NIU’s MBA program has become a central part of his volunteering.
“Recently, I spoke to the Executive MBA students,” he said. “I wanted to provide them with a perspective of someone who wasn’t handed a family business but built a path through grit, determination and the invaluable lessons learned at NIU.”
His talk with the EMBA students Sept. 29 was more than just a lecture; it was a personal narrative interwoven with professional insights.
“I spoke about my journey, the ups and downs, the challenges and the triumphs,” he said. “The road to success isn’t linear; it’s filled with twists and turns. Yet, with determination, you can always find your way.”
Horan’s lectures are often peppered with personal anecdotes that add depth to his insights. One such story that resonates profoundly is his journey “From Main Street to Wall Street.”
“I literally grew up on Main Street in Mount Prospect, Illinois,” he said. “My trajectory took me from there to ringing the bell on Wall Street — a defining moment in my career. I want students to know if I can do it, so can you.”
A memorable highlight from his recent talk with Executive MBA students was the engaging Q&A session. “I’ve spoken at numerous universities, but the questions from NIU students were unparalleled. It was a testament to their curiosity, ambition and drive,” he said.
Why has Horan decided to give back in such profound ways to the MBA program?
“It’s gratitude,” he said. “I graduated from NIU and spent years in the business world, but I never forgot where I came from. Those were formative years for me. I met my wife at NIU, and it’s been almost 40 years since that day. Northern [Illinois University] is more than just an alma mater; it’s where a pivotal chapter of my life began. That’s why I feel the need to give back and stay connected.”
In a world where success is often measured by professional achievements, Terry Horan reminds us of the enduring impact of giving back.
“I think I can add value,” he said. “It’s really just getting in front of students and talking to them and telling them my journey.”
“Alumni who give back to NIU are such a vital part of our college,” said College of Business Interim Dean Denise Schoenbachler. “Being a Huskie means you are always part of our pack, and our students benefit from our successful graduates who make it a priority to share what they know. Relationships, like the one we have with Terry, are in the fabric of who we are, and I am so proud to see generations of Huskies connecting in these ways.”
