Our Founders

Founder & President, Forward Leader

With over 30 years of experience in leadership development and ministry, Dr. Terry LaMasters has dedicated his life to forming disciples, advancing the gospel, and raising kingdom leaders. He holds a Doctor of Education in Christian Leadership: Ministry Leadership from Liberty University and has served in both church and organizational contexts, equipping leaders to serve with clarity, courage, and conviction.

Terry’s leadership philosophy is shaped by Scripture and guided by the Spirit. He believes that true leadership begins with followership—anchored in Christ and expressed through service, humility, and bold faith. Over his career, he has helped build strong teams, shape healthy cultures, and empower leaders to multiply their impact for the Kingdom of God.

At Forward Leader, he leads with a vision to see a global movement of gospel-driven leaders who break barriers, lead culture-shifting change, and carry the hope of Christ into every sphere of influence.

Dr. LaMasters and his wife, Cheryl, have been married for over 35 years and live in Washington State. Together, they have raised five children.

Co-Founder & COO, Forward Leader

Cheryl LaMasters is the Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of Forward Leader, where she helps shape the systems, culture, and partnerships that advance the organization’s mission of equipping gospel-driven leaders. With more than 30 years of ministry experience and a background in operations and team development, Cheryl brings both strategic insight and a servant’s heart to every aspect of leadership.

Born and raised in California, Cheryl began serving in the local church at a young age, developing a deep love for ministry, missions, and helping others discover their calling. She and her husband, Terry, have served together in ministry for over three decades—pastoring youth and life groups, helping plant churches, and equipping leaders to build healthy, Spirit-led communities.

Alongside her ministry leadership, Cheryl has led teams in fast-paced environments in both the public and private sectors. Her career has included roles in financial counseling, state administration, and church operations—where she’s built policies, trained teams, and cultivated systems that empower people to flourish.

A lifelong learner, Cheryl holds a Bachelor of Science in Religion: Global Studies from Liberty University. She has also dedicated more than 16 years to homeschooling her five children, modeling discipleship in both family and faith.

Today, she serves with a passion to see leaders—especially women and families—grow in courage, wisdom, and biblical clarity as they live out the gospel in everyday life.

She and Terry have been married for over 35 years and live in Washington State.