Indiana Philanthropy Alliance Hires Director of Member Programs

Indiana Philanthropy Alliance (IPA) is pleased to announce John Ferguson as the new Director of Member Programs.

“John is an innovator and connector, with a passion for helping communities,” shared Claudia Cummings, president and CEO of Indiana Philanthropy Alliance. “These qualities will serve our members well, particularly as our association looks forward to hosting a statewide Philanthropy Leads Conference as well as a Rural Prosperity Symposium later this year.”

Ferguson joins the team at IPA after working as a fellow for The Patterson Foundation (TPF), where he contributed to the creation and development of several innovative projects, such as Digital Access for All. 

“I can't wait to connect with IPA members and work together to create meaningful opportunities for engagement and learning that help our communities and each other thrive,” said Ferguson.

Prior to working with The Patterson Foundation, Ferguson worked for Indiana United Ways (IUW) from 2017 to 2020. Initially Ferguson worked as outreach manager and later engagement manager for IUW. In this role he honed engagement strategies for IUW members, served on the Donor-Centered Development Workgroup, and strengthened strategic partnerships with other philanthropic, academic, and corporate institutions that align with the work of United Way.
 
Ferguson received his degree in Philanthropic Studies from the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, the world's first school dedicated solely to the study and teaching of philanthropy. He received a Professional Certificate in Nonprofit Management from Indiana University O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs. Ferguson was named Chancellor's Scholar for his graduating class and serves as chair of the Alumni Association board of directors for the school.