Who's That Duck?

Name: Jody Ferguson   

Job title, department: HEDCO Clinic Manager, College of Education   

Describe the work you do and how long you have been at UO. 

In my three years at UO, I have been fortunate to work with a multitude of graduate students and faculty members at the College of Education. The HEDCO Clinic is multidisciplinary, integrated training clinic where roughly 120 master’s and doctoral students per year are able to gain their clinical experience hours working with individuals and families in the community. My specific function is helping the clinic run as smoothly as possible. I help facilitate the various technologies we use, maintain the clinic operations, provide support for our donor-funded services and community contracts, oversee the student/faculty permissions and training, and offer a wide variety of support for our centers and directors so they can provide the best care possible. I have worked in health care for many years, and I believe this is the most rewarding position I have held.

Tell us about a time in your job that you felt you made a difference.

Walking into a small surprise party when I was selected for the UO Outstanding Employee Award, I was surrounded by my fellow administration staff and center directors who showered me with praises for the work I had done over the last three years. I felt a huge sense of pride for the efforts I had put in and how far we have come as a clinic. I am extremely grateful to be a part of this team who provides unwavering support and guidance. I truly felt the positive impact we provide to our students and clients and the important role I play.

How do you help students or coworkers create a sense of belonging?

Consistent communication and my open-door policy help foster an environment where students and faculty feel comfortable coming to me with any questions or problems they may have. The students work in the clinic for one to four years and spend countless hours here. I love the connections I make, and watching the students blossom then graduate. From the very first orientation to their final client session, I want students to feel a connection with the clinic and how important their work is.

What is a favorite spot on your campus (for coffee or to relax)?

Sitting by the fireplace in the HEDCO Education building on a cold day, watching the buzz of students around me. In the summer, the courtyard has lounge chairs where you can recharge your battery in the sun. We have such a beautiful complex.

What are you reading/watching/listening to these days?

I am currently listening to the audiobook “A Court of Thorns and Roses” by Sarah J. Maas. There has been a lot of buzz around this series so I thought I would give it a try. On Netflix, I have been watching the newest “Emily in Paris” episodes. It's nice to decompress the stress that comes with fall term.

Jody Ferguson was a 2023 Outstanding Employee Award recipient.