United Community, Unlimited Potential: Teri Ann Zide
Teri Ann Zide's journey began in the heart of Marietta, where she was born and raised. Her parents opened Teri Ann's in 1961, a store that would become a cherished part of the local community. But life took a dramatic turn for Teri Ann and her siblings.
At the age of fifteen, she was faced with the unimaginable loss of her father and then her mother at sixteen. In the wake of their passing, she made the difficult decision to go to school part-time and step into the family business.
"Stepping into my parents' shoes at such a young age was overwhelming," Teri Ann reflected. "But the community's support made all the difference. They didn't just help me keep the store running — they helped me grow into the person I am today."
Running Teri Ann's at such an early age was no small feat. The challenges were immense, but Teri Ann was not alone. The Marietta community, recognizing her determination and strength, rallied around her, offering support and guidance.
This nurturing environment taught her invaluable lessons about the importance of community. Teri Ann quickly understood that her store was more than just a place to buy dresses – it was a cornerstone of the community, a place where relationships were built, and lives were touched.
"There were days when I felt overwhelmed like I was in over my head," she admitted. "But every time a customer walked through the door; I was reminded that this store wasn't just about me — it was about all of us. Every dress we sold, every smile we shared, it all meant something deeper."
As the years went on, Teri Ann's became synonymous with quality, service, and a deep sense of belonging. Teri Ann herself became a respected figure in Marietta, known not just for her business but also for her dedication to the community. This reputation led Bob Kirkbride and Norman Murray, influential figures with Marietta Community Foundation, to invite her to join the Foundation's board.
"When Bob and Norm asked me to join the board, I was overwhelmed," Teri Ann admitted. "These were men I admired deeply, and to think they saw something in me… It was incredibly humbling. I felt like I had come full circle."
She was deeply honored to be considered, especially by such esteemed individuals. For Teri Ann, joining the Foundation was not just about taking on a new role – it was about aligning herself with an organization that shared her values of community support and long-term impact.
Teri Ann quickly realized the profound impact that the Foundation has on Washington County.
“Marietta Community Foundation is built on trust. People trust us with their dreams, legacies, and hopes for the future. It’s an incredible responsibility, and it’s why we must always do what’s right, even when it’s hard.”
Teri Ann's philosophy in business, inspired by her time with the Foundation, was rooted in a simple yet powerful principle: "Do the right thing." This guiding principle, instilled in her by mentors like Bob Kirkbride, became the foundation of how she operated Teri Ann's.
Teri Ann’s 2009 term as Chair of Marietta Community Foundation’s Board.
“Doing the right thing isn’t just a saying - it’s a way of life,” Teri Ann said. "It's not always easy, and sometimes it's not even popular, but it's what makes a lasting difference. It's what my parents taught me, what Bob reinforced, and what I've tried to live by every day." Teri Ann believed that the success of her business was inextricably linked to Marietta's well-being, and she carried this belief into her work with the Foundation.
When Teri Ann's celebrated its 50th anniversary, Teri Ann knew she wanted to mark the occasion in a way that would leave a lasting impact. She organized a special event, raising $1,700 in ticket sales, which was used to start the Teri Ann’s Charitable Fund with the Foundation.
"Starting that fund was a way of saying thank you," she explained. "Thank you to the Foundation, thank you to the community, and thank you to my parents, whose values and love have carried me through. It felt like the perfect way to celebrate the store's legacy."
Today, Teri Ann remains deeply involved with Marietta Community Foundation. For her, staying on the board is not just a duty; it is a privilege and responsibility that she holds close to her heart. She believes in the Foundation's cause and is committed to supporting it in any way she can.
"Being on the board isn't just something I do — it's who I am," Teri Ann said. "It's my way of making sure the values that built this community, and my life, continue to thrive. It's my way of giving back to the place that has given me everything."