About Us

The Hugh and Jane Ferguson Foundation, founded in 1987, is a family foundation that supports nonprofit organizations in Washington, Oregon and Alaska. The Foundation is dedicated to the preservation and restoration of nature, including wildlife and their required habitats. It also supports the institutions that present nature and our rich cultural heritage to the public.

Trustees

Hugh S. Ferguson (1916-2011)
Jane A. Ferguson (1918-1994)

Ellen Ferguson, pictured here in her natural habitat, is a founding trustee, along with her parents, of the Hugh and Jane Ferguson Foundation. The Ferguson family has deep roots in the Pacific Northwest, where Ellen is a third generation Seattleite. She and her parents started the foundation in 1987, and together helped shape its direction and philanthropic efforts. Hugh and Jane have since passed away, and Ellen continues to honor their generous spirits through giving approximately $1 million annually. Ellen has dedicated her life to preserving natural resources and supporting cultural heritage throughout the Pacific Northwest. She has enjoyed a 50-year career at The Burke Museum, and was recently awarded the Gates Volunteer Service Award for her lifetime of philanthropic giving, volunteerism, and impact in the Seattle community and region.

Staff

Amy Wilcox is the Foundation Advisor for The Hugh and Jane Ferguson Foundation. Amy brings more than 25 years of experience in nonprofit and government administration, leadership and management to this role. Her areas of expertise include conservation and environmental protection, education, and arts and culture. Amy believes in the power of humanitarian service to transform communities. She is constantly amazed by the breadth of projects conducted by The Hugh and Jane Ferguson Foundation grantees and is inspired by the impactful work being accomplished throughout the Pacific Northwest.