Doug Ferguson makes a difference everywhere he serves.
As National President of the Liberal Party of Canada, Doug steered the party through one of the most difficult periods in its history, and is proud to be on a team that, with major reforms, built a strong foundation for the renewal of the Party. He believes that “together we can make a difference,” and the results show he means it.
Doug has spearheaded several successful Party initiatives, including the Liberal Universitynational training program and the Liberal Party Renewal Conference held London in May, 2006. He also co-chaired the Change Commission in 2009 that will lead to more major reforms within the Party.
Most of Doug’s political life has been in London West. He served as President of the London West Federal Liberal Association and as campaign manager in three federal campaigns in London West. He has been on theBoard of London West for over 20 years. During his term as President Doug created the Century Club, which has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for all three London ridings. Doug’s organizing techniques were incorporated into Liberal University and were adopted by ridings across Canada. He also served as President of the London West Provincial Liberal Association when the Hon. Chris Bentley was first elected.
Doug’s commitment to making a difference can also be found outside the political arena. He left his law practice to become Director of Community Legal Services (a law clinic for low income persons) and adjunct professor in the Faculty of Law, University of Western Ontario, where he has taken a lead role in helping people in need who don’t know where to turn. He is always humbled by the law students who work in the clinic during the academic year offering legal advice and representation to those in need.
The Western Law Alumni Association honoured Doug as the Alumnus of Distinction in April 2009 as the law school celebrated its 50th anniversary.
Doug has maintained a long-standing interest in politics and community affairs, and understands the importance of engaging all members of the community when finding solutions to local issues. As President of Covent Garden Market when it was rebuilt in 1998-99, Doug pushed for a more community-oriented Market with a public square and room for arts and culture. As President of the Canadian Club of London, Doug ensured that its Board reflected the diversity of London and of Canada, and hosted the largest meeting in the Club’s history.
Doug has worked hard over the years cultivating his knowledge, skill and understanding of how politics can be done right, with respect for all points of view. Some might say it’s in his blood. The lessons learned from his father, former MP and Agriculture Minister Ralph Ferguson, growing up on a farm near Watford, Ontario still ring true today.
Doug is married to Laurie Lashbrook, a successful entrepreneur who shares Doug’s passion for making a difference in the community. Their blended family includes Doug’s children, Sarah and Duncan, and Laurie’s daughter Erika.
Doug plays hockey and golf whenever his time allows. To everyone’s surprise, he scored a hat trick this past winter. He loves to travel, and is an avid reader, enjoying history, biography, and science fiction.
