The work of the Murdock Trust is the result of a dedicated team that brings a diverse collection of talents and expertise to support our mission of serving the common good every day. While the day-to-day efforts of our work are driven by our full time staff, we are also fortunate to have a team of outside advisors, including Visiting Scholars and Fellows, who bring great wisdom and professional experience to help us better understand the needs of the communities we serve and identify strategies to continue to improve our efforts to see every individual, family and community in the Pacific Northwest flourish and thrive.
- The Senior Fellow program of the Murdock Trust provides the opportunity for outstanding senior leaders to offer expertise and support to key sectors of interest and work of the Trust. Senior Fellows may advise on panels, serve as a part of convenings, represent the Trust at philanthropic or nonprofit meetings, or provide input representing an issue of interest. Senior Fellows may also advise staff, participate as faculty in enrichment programs or pursue other experiences that bring knowledge to the work and mission of the Trust. They have all served effectively in their field of discipline and bring a record of thoughtful public service to their contributions of service and work at the Trust.
- The Visiting Fellow program provides an opportunity for individuals with professional expertise and distinction to connect with the Murdock Trust and enrich our mission and the constituencies we serve. Visiting Fellows are provided a space of work at the Murdock Trust for professional renewal and development, and they are given the opportunity to advise the Trust on areas and sectors of key interest. They may convene professionals and colleagues in their areas of expertise for conversation and connection and serve as a resource in the region by speaking, presenting or serving in other ways.
We are beyond pleased to share that three outstanding leaders in the business and philanthropic communities have joined the Trust as Fellows as we begin the new year.
Jerry Calhoun (Senior Fellow) built a career spanning more than three decades in the Human Resources sector, serving in roles for Boeing, Bristol-Myers and the Ronald Reagan Presidential administration. In addition to his work in the HR field, Jerry has also held teaching positions with the University of Washington Business School. A graduate of Seattle University, Jerry earned his MBA at UW. In addition to representing the Trust at events, conferences and convenings, Jerry will bring his unique background and expertise in corporate philanthropy to help the Trust better facilitate partnerships and programs with organizations in the business community.
Harold Smith (Visiting Fellow) is currently the President Emeritus of Christianity Today, an organization he led as Editor, President and CEO for more than 35 years. Harold graduated from the University of Michigan and conducted graduate studies at the Michigan State University Graduate School of Journalism. Harold will provide valuable insight into the current state of the faith-based community at a national level and the ways in which philanthropy invests and supports the critical work being done in communities with mental health organizations and with the formerly incarcerated and their families.
Dan Ryan (Visiting Fellow) joins the Trust following an extensive leadership career supporting Northwest nonprofits such as All Hands Raised where he served as CEO for more than a decade, Oregon Ballet Theatre and Portland State University. A graduate of the University of Oregon, Dan conducted graduate study at New School University. As a Visiting Fellow, Dan will provide valuable insight to the Trust regarding board and leadership development needs and opportunities throughout the region as well as participate in conversations with nonprofit organizations serving the Portland-metro and broader Pacific Northwest.
Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Jerry, Harold and Dan! If you have interest in having them or other Murdock Fellows connect with your nonprofit, contact Colby Reade colbyr@murdocktrust.org.
