About Us | Beyond the Ordinary

Our History & Heritage

Rooted in Sisterhood. Growing Through Service. 

Where Ladies Flourish Together.

Established and incorporated in 2007 as part of an MBA graduate studies capstone project, the Ferns Foundation, Inc., Lady Ferns Society® was created to unite women in service and leadership while empowering girls ages 11–17 through its signature, free youth initiative, The Ferns Foundation, Inc.® Guiding Girls to Greatness Program. This program served girls throughout the Greater Pittsburgh area and included etiquette instruction, the College Connections collaboration with the University of Pittsburgh’s Black Action Society, the Dove Self-Esteem Workshop, and holiday gift-wrap service projects.

The Ferns Foundation Inc.®

Focused. Empowered. Resilient. Nurturing. Successful.

Guiding Girls to Greatness Program - The Ferns Foundation Inc. ®

University Connections, November 2011 

University of Pittsburgh

University of Pittsburgh Black Action Society

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15260

DISCLAIMER: All original photographs displayed on this website are the exclusive property of the Ferns Foundation Inc.®, Lady Ferns Society®. Ferns Foundation Inc.® has a media/photo release form on file authorizing its use of these images. These images may not be downloaded, copied, shared, reproduced, or otherwise used without written consent. Unauthorized use violates copyright law and will result in legal action. Ferns Foundation Inc.®, Lady Ferns Society®, 2026.

From its inception, the organization’s mission has been guided by a deep commitment to sisterhood, service, and servant leadership, as well as a belief in the power of women to create meaningful change in their communities.

As the years progressed, members of the original founding body pursued higher education, advanced their careers, raised families, and embraced new opportunities. Along the way, they also navigated life's challenges with resilience, grace, and determination. Among them are three breast cancer survivors and thrivers whose courage, faith, and strength exemplify the spirit and values of the organization.

As their lives evolved and priorities shifted, organizational activities gradually decreased, leading the organization into a period of hiatus.

Today, many of the founding members are distinguished leaders in their respective fields, hold doctoral degrees, remain civically engaged, and are active members of organizations within the NPHC.

The legacy of the Lady Ferns Society® continues to evolve and reflect the core vision of its founding body—women dedicated to uplifting others, servant leadership, developing future leaders, and strengthening communities from the inside out.

Founder—Wendy Carpenter (Owner; Domestic Nonprofit Corporation - Incorporated 2007), MBA Capstone Project 2009.

The Founding Body—Dr. Eva Allen, Deena Magee, *Marie McBride (deceased), Dr. Tammi McMillan, Tamara Roach, and Tammy Spencer Bey were pivotal in establishing the organization’s original vision and laying its foundation.

This is our journey. Get to know our organization, what we do, and how we're committed to sisterhood and excellence in service. Every lady deserves a supportive sister circle!  We're glad you're here and interested in being a part of our next chapter. Join us as we grow, lead, and succeed together!