Distinguished military cyber advisor brings global perspective to the event.
Elizabeth City, NC — When Gates County Community Partnership (GCCP) hosts its highly anticipated Charity Gala on Saturday, April 4 at 5:00 p.m., attendees will be treated not only to an elegant evening at the K. E. White Center at Elizabeth City State University, but also to a keynote address from one of the nation’s most accomplished military leaders, Brigadier General Terrence Adams.
Currently serving as the Deputy Principal Cyber Advisor to the Secretary of War and Senior Military Advisor for Cyber Policy, Brig. Gen. Adams operates at the highest levels of national defense, advising on military cyber forces, strategy, and global security initiatives. His leadership spans decades of service across the Army and Air Force, including command at the squadron, group, and wing levels, and deployments supporting major operations around the world.
But beyond his impressive résumé, organizers say it is Adams’ story, rooted in discipline, education, and perseverance, that makes him the perfect keynote speaker for an event centered on opportunity and transformation.
Born in Tuskegee, Alabama, Adams began his military journey by enlisting in the Army straight out of high school. After six years of service, he pursued higher education and entered the Air Force through ROTC, eventually rising through the ranks to become a Brigadier General. His academic credentials include multiple advanced degrees in fields ranging from computer information systems to national security strategy, along with executive education from institutions such as Harvard University and MIT.
Over the course of his career, Adams has led in some of the most complex and high-stakes environments, including assignments at the Pentagon and command roles at Joint Base Charleston. His work in cyber operations and national defense has earned him numerous honors, including the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal, and the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award.
For GCCP, bringing a leader of this caliber to Gates County is both intentional and symbolic.
“Brigadier General Adams represents exactly what we strive to show our young people, that where you start does not limit where you can go,” said Sandra Jordan Branch of Gates County Community Partnership. “His journey reflects the power of education, mentorship, and determination, which are the same values that drive everything we do at The Partnership.”
The gala, themed “Opening Doors, Expanding Horizons,” aligns seamlessly with Adams’ life story. His progression from a small-town upbringing to advising national leaders on cybersecurity mirrors GCCP’s mission to expand opportunities for Gates County youth through education, mentorship, and exposure to new pathways.
Since its founding in 2018, GCCP has worked tirelessly to provide those pathways, securing major grants for local schools, awarding scholarships, donating over 190 laptops, supporting youth academics and athletics, and leading initiatives like Saunders Science Scholars, a STEM partnership with Morehead Planetarium and Science Center.
For attendees, Adams’ keynote is expected to be a highlight of the evening, offering not only insight into leadership and service, but also inspiration for the next generation.
Tickets for the Gates County Community Partnership Charity Gala are available at GCCP2026.eventbrite.com.