INSTITUTIONAL SERVICES
Working with Ferguson Wellman is like having your own internal investment team.
By managing your capital with care, we free your organization to focus on what matters most—driving impact and transforming communities.
We understand the stress and rigor it takes to operate an organization. As your investment team, we act as an extension of your team, providing clarity, transparency and confidence in every investment decision.
Experience in a Snapshot
We Work as a Team
Fiduciary Alignment and Mission Sensitivity
We act in the best interest of our clients by delivering strategies that preserve capital, fuel growth, and honor your organization's values. From investment policy development to committee education, we're here to take on the burden of complexity and strengthen governance while protecting your capital over time.
Empowering Boards and Committees
We bring deep bench of experts having worked with nonprofits, endowments, and foundations. We support your board with governance, education, and clear reporting.
Long-term, Steady Growth
Since our inception, our team has steadily grown capital overtime while managing the spending and liquidity needs of our clients.
Over the years, board service has provided our team with a firsthand understanding of stewardship as volunteers, which also benefits us as investment advisers.
This experience reinforces our commitment to responsible service and investment management, supporting the broader goals of the nonprofit sector while fostering personal and professional growth.
—Jim Rudd, philanthropist and retired Ferguson Wellman CEO
Who We Serve
Types of Plans
Taft Hartley
Community Colleges
Cemetaries/Funeral Homes
Religious Organizations
Family Foundations
Corporations and Partnerships
Foundations and Endowments
Pension/Retirement Plans
Cash Balance Plans
Healthcare Plans
Case Studies
Case Study 1: Establishing an Endowment with Strong Governance
We partnered with a client to establish a new endowment, implementing a governance structure built on best practices and industry standards. By creating clear investment policies, defining committee responsibilities, and establishing reporting protocols, we ensured long-term accountability and sustainability. The result was a well-structured foundation for prudent decision-making and enduring stewardship.
Case Study 2: Supporting Fundraising through Planned Giving Education
We assisted a client’s fundraising efforts by conducting planned giving presentations for donors and board members. Our team explained strategies to align philanthropic goals with tax-efficient giving opportunities, helping the organization strengthen donor engagement. This initiative expanded the client’s fundraising capacity and deepened relationships with key supporters.
Case Study 3: Educating Clients on Shifting from Bonds to Alternatives
When low interest rates diminished bond returns, we educated clients on the benefits of reallocating to alternative investments. Through ongoing discussions and transparent communication, we helped them gain confidence in the new asset allocation. As a result, their portfolios experienced growth while overall risk was reduced.