From New York to Nevada, Parsons Behle & Latimer (Parsons) employment and labor law, and litigation attorney Sarah Ferguson is no stranger to community advocacy. She has now been elected as a member of the Board of Trustees for the University of Nevada, Reno (University) Foundation.
The volunteer board of trustees guides the Foundation in supporting the University. The Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization separate from the University and provides a mechanism for private individuals, corporations and foundations to make charitable gifts to the University. The Foundation receives, invests and administers funds to benefit the University, while honoring the philanthropic intent of its donors.
Ferguson says, “The success of the University of Nevada, Reno is vital to Reno’s growth and vice versa. Universities are the cornerstone of any robust community. Supporting the University – for example, its emergence as a technology innovation center – is of utmost importance for the community. We need to ensure that the relationship stays strong.”
As the daughter of a University faculty member, Ferguson has long been affiliated with the University. She says much of her childhood and formative years were spent at the University in student productions, art shows and summer camps, so now serving the University is a nostalgic experience. “The University is an essential pillar of the community. And collaboration between the University and community leaders is mutually beneficial. The skills and knowledge students receive from the University in arts, culture and science – particularly in STEM, benefit all Reno industries. Reciprocally, businesses need to ensure that the University obtains the support it needs to provide student programs and services to help foster the next generation of talent in Reno.” Prior to being a Foundation board member, Ferguson served on the board of the University’s on-campus Lilley Museum.
Ferguson is committed to serving the Reno community, which is reflected in her practice. She maintains an active pro bono practice, including direct services and community outreach. She currently serves as the vice president of the board of Northern Nevada Legal Aid, where she assists in strategic planning, staff development and board training. She also actively seeks to advance and support public and private partnerships and pro bono participation in the legal community in Reno.
Parsons’ Office Managing Shareholder Michael R. Kealy says, “We are proud that Sarah has become a member of our firm, not only for her depth of experience and skill but also for her exceptional dedication to clients and to the Northern Nevada community as a whole.”
