LESLIE FERGUSON-OLES
Profession:
Research and Strategic Project Coordinator
Five Words About Me:
Thoughtful, Funny, Imaginative, Synthesizer, Strong
One Surprising Skill:
Haircutting, bread making and tractor driving
With MACED since 2016, Leslie oversees research to develop MACED’s understanding of trends, issues and opportunities related to creating a Just Transition to a new economy in eastern Kentucky and Central Appalachia. She also coordinates the development and implementation of projects that support MACED’s strategic initiatives. Leslie holds an M. A. in English Composition and Rhetoric from Western Carolina University and a B.A. in English-Writing from Berea College with a minor in Sustainability and Environmental Studies. A proud Western North Carolina native, Leslie is happy to call Berea home.