Debbie Ferguson Named Woman of Wisdom for 2019

Nominated by professional associates, friends, family and Women of Wisdom, Debbie Ferguson was an obvious choice to be recognized as a 2019 Woman of Wisdom. After all, Debbie has done much to contribute to the betterment of our community through her service and leadership and has served as an inspirational role model in Bonner County.

It takes a Woman of Wisdom to know one, and Debbie Ferguson was nominated by two Women of Wisdom. Jennifer Leedy, who was honored in 2018, wrote in her letter of nomination, “Debbie Ferguson is the perfect example of a Woman of Wisdom!”

Barb Merritt, honored in 2012, echoed Jennifer’s thoughts as well. Now an honoree, Debbie was first involved with Women Honoring Women when its founder, Marsha Ogilvie, tapped Debbie to be a member of the first Women Honoring Women committee.

Courtney Ferguson, Debbie’s daughter, recognized her mother’s passion to give of her time and talent when needed. She wrote in her nomination letter that her mother “...will not stand by when she can help.” Clearly, Debbie Ferguson doesn’t stand around much. She flags for the Lost in the ‘50’s parade, opens her home to bicycle riders, hosted a foreign exchange student, is a past volunteer at and continued supporter of Bonner Community Food Bank and volunteers for the Backpacks for Kids program, provides roadside cleanup and serves on the scholarship committee for the Selkirk Association of Realtors. She has been a member of Rotary for over 27 years.

Debbie also serves on committees that contribute to the betterment of the community including the Human Rights Coalition. She is the past PTA president of Sagle Elementary School and is involved in Selkirk Association of Realtors. She also served on the Bonner County School District Board (prior to the county being divided into two school districts) for two terms.

In nearly every group that Debbie volunteers her time and talent, she has held officer positions, because, as Jennifer Leedy wrote, “Debbie is a born leader.” Debbie’s friend and business partner, Dan McLaughlin, wrote in his nominating letter: “One of Debbie’s most outstanding qualities is that she never compromised values or backed away from any responsibilities when confronted with tough decisions in community matters, jobs or business.” And in yet another accolade to Debbie, Sydney Icardo ended her nominating letter with “If ever there was a woman deserving of this honor, it is Debbie Ferguson.”

In addition to Debbie Ferguson, the other Women of Wisdom 2019 honorees include Kathleen Bordenave, Marilyn Robertson, Mary Jo Ambrosiani, Mary Stevens, and Teri Nickisch. This year’s Women of Wisdom Gala will take place on Saturday, May 11, beginning at 11am with a welcome reception followed by a luncheon and program from 11:30am to 1:30pm at the The Ponderay Events Center.

To be nominated for Woman of Wisdom, candidates must be 65 years or older. She possesses vision and achieves goals through collaboration. She exhibits a love of learning through the pursuit of knowledge by study or experience. She shows a commitment to the Bonner County community and its members, and has had a positive impact, such as in the areas of art, music, theatre, dance, sports, education and service. She demonstrates dedicated leadership that results in admiration and respect from others. She is an inspiration to others and an example for future generations of women. She faces life’s challenges with grace and courage, and lives with dignity, integrity and honor.

The 2019 Women Honoring Women committee members are: Kari Saccomanno, chair; Diane Arrants, Robin Bianco, Kathy Chambers, Kathy Conger, Barbara Eacret, Deanna Harris, Alana Hatcher, Patty Hutchens, Julie Jurenka, Kendall Lang, Pat Lewis, Debbie Love, Sally Lowry, Leslie Marshall, Jeralyn Mire, Marlene Rorke, Sandy Ross, Marilyn Sabella, Tina Sleyster, Sally Transue and Linda VanDellen.