Karen Ferguson

Dr. Karen Ferguson is passionate about using her expertise and background to contribute to humanitarian, social justice and DEI initiatives.

Prior to her work with CORA, Dr. Ferguson was Executive Director of the Northern California offices of IRC–the International Rescue Committee. She led the regional offices serving Oakland, Sacramento, San Jose, Modesto and Turlock, providing comprehensive services for newly arriving refugees. She managed programs ranging from securing housing and providing financial assistance to employment and career development, with the goal of helping refugees achieve self-sufficiency and thrive in their new American communities

She also spent 10 years as the Alaska State Refugee Coordinator and Resettlement Director, directing assistance and resettlement services for refugees, immigrants and victims of trafficking, and establishing a resettlement program with a diverse portfolio of nationally recognized refugee services.

Karen is also a licensed Clinical Psychologist and possesses a PhD within the field. She previously served as the Clinical and Department Manager for Outpatient Mental Health Services at Southcentral Foundation Primary Care Center and as a Psychology Consultant for American Samoa Government. She has been a frequent invited speaker, including most recently presenting with the cast of Hamilton on issues of immigration.