As part of our ongoing Board Member Spotlight series, we are pleased to introduce Mary Howland Macferran, whose deep family roots at National City brings a rich history and perspective that provides insight and wisdom to the work of the Foundation Board.
Mary Howland Macferran lives in West Texas, a landscape that has inspired her to learn to love the barren landscape in this semi-desert. Mary earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Special Education/Psychology and a Master’s degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from the University of Texas at Austin.
Mary retired from a rewarding career as a Special Education Consultant, private practice therapist, curriculum developer, writer, landman in the oil and gas industry, and most recently as Development and Marketing Director for a non-profit counseling center. She is an active volunteer with several organizations including the Library Foundation, League of Women Voters, Invested Faith, National City Christian Church Foundation, as well as other volunteer opportunities.
As part of our ongoing Board Member spotlight we invited Mary to reflect on the three questions we’ve asked each board member to reflect on in this series.
What has brought you hope in the last year?
I have found hope in the many ways individuals, communities and groups are uniting to build and heal community during these polarizing times.
My beautiful grandchildren are a constant source of joy for me. My granddaughters live three miles away and they take my job as “Emmy” very seriously, including me in their activities and energy.
What are you reading or listening to right now?
I have written and studied poetry for a number of years and am always steadied by the work of the poet, Mary Oliver. I recently finished reading Lonesome Dove by Larry McMurtry, a book I read every few years as a reminder of the beauty, strength, pain and hope on our journey through life.
Why is the work of the Foundation important?
The work of the Foundation is important locally and nationally. National City is a symbol of hope and justice for Disciples of Christ churches and the denomination at large. A gathering place for people of faith in the seat of power is more essential now than ever before to carry a message of hope and care.
I have been invested in the work of the Foundation and the Congregation since 1976 when my father, Dr. William C. Howland, Jr. became the senior pastor. I have stayed connected with and followed the NCCC family for almost 50 years and am passionate about its mission and health. My parents and my husband, Sam, are interned in the Columbarium and I, too, will reside there, beneath the magnificent organ and sanctuary at my life’s end.