Who We Are
Our Values
Responsive & Thoughtful
Fernwood prioritizes the unique needs of each client. We listen to the challenges your organization faces and approach the work based on your needs.
Environmentally & Socially Conscious
Sustainability is important to us, as well as our clients. We seek to ensure our work and that of our clients is equitable and inclusive.
Curious & Pragmatic
We ask questions that get to solutions. Our recommendations are always practical and appropriate based on the resources available to our clients.
“Partnering with Fernwood has made our work easier. Esther laid the foundation for us to make some difficult decisions. She presented information in a way that was easy for our team to digest and move forward. Our work with her will have a lasting positive impact for Project WILD!”
— Elena Takaki, Project WILD and Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies
Esther Cowles, Principal
With over 30 years’ experience in the nonprofit and small business sectors, Esther knows how fulfilling and challenging the work of the social entrepreneur is. She also knows when an organization seeks an “outside consultant,” they want someone who will get to solutions effectively and efficiently.
Esther has worked and consulted as an executive leader, evaluator, program designer, instructional designer, trainer, and educator at the state, regional, national, and international levels.
Esther honors the intrinsic knowledge of people and organizations, and couples it with research and evaluation to guide strategic planning and organizational development. Her skills are deeply rooted in participatory involvement and collaborative processes and partnerships. Much of her work is accomplished with colleagues and consultants to deliver customized expertise and services to meet each client’s unique needs.