Eric Ferguson ’95 is the president of Metanoia Missions International, and helps to provide humanitarian aid to countries in need.
Why would you recommend La Roche to a prospective student?
La Roche offers a diverse and quality education that many smaller colleges do not. La Roche is not located in downtown Pittsburgh, but it is close enough to enjoy one of the most livable cities in America.
What impact did La Roche have on you as a person?
The teacher and staff interaction impacted me greatly. Even though there were professional boundaries established, the professors and staff took a great interest in our lives as students.
What does your job entail?
I serve as the president of Metanoia Missions International. My job entails strategic planning, fundraising, networking, coaching, public speaking and international travel.
How did La Roche prepare you for this position?
La Roche gave me a broader worldview and challenged me to look beyond what I viewed as familiar or comfortable.
Are you involved in any volunteer service projects now?
Our organization is continually building houses for the less fortunate, starting small business for poor families, feeding children (presently over 15,000 per week), hosting medical clinics, and distributing humanitarian goods. In fact, over the past six years, we have distributed over $26 million worth of humanitarian aid in Nicaragua.
Were you involved in any clubs, sports or organizations as a student? How did these activities enhance your college experience?
I was a part of the soccer team. Any team sport helps a person develop character and think beyond themselves.
Please describe an experience with a faculty or staff member who made a strong, positive impact on you:
Bobby Vosmaer, our soccer coach, always believed in us and pushed us to improve, not only as players, but as individuals.
What advice do you have for our students?
Don't sell yourself short. Dream big, dream out loud, and dream in full color.
What are you most proud of when you look back on your La Roche experience?
That I was able to graduate with very little debt.
Advice to pass along to readers:
Chase after your dreams and do not stop until you reach them. Don't allow failure or complacency to hinder you; keep moving forward. Even if you have to take baby steps, keep going. You can do it!