Ruth Ferguson Hooke

Ruth was my mentor. I was her student at UWW and she encouraged me to teach. Later, I interned for my master's program, co-teaching classes with her. Later I was hired by UWW as advisor/instructor and held her as a friend and my teaching model. I loved her. She taught me so much.

Ruth was an exemplary citizen, who with Richard, sponsored
every form of community and humane value---through singing,
travel, adventures, and discussion groups at their house.
Our family worked together with them on the project of bringing two Bosnian girls to Amherst----and they were hosts to Helena from Zgreb,
working tirelessly for her. She was always an inspiration---her
plain goodwill in every situation was an education in the powerful example of her own...

Ruth was my hero! She was so courageous. I first met her through SVHE, but she was also my roommate on a memorable trip to Palestine-Israel in 2009 for the Sabeel International Conference. When others spontaneously proposed that a group try to get into Gaza, she volunteered immediately. They didn't get in, but they made themselves heard.

I am so glad and honored that I had a chance to know Ruth. She leaves a gap that will not be easily filled.

Ruth was one of a kind. They must have thrown away the mold when she was born. She showed up everywhere we demonstrated against injustice for decades. Ruth Hooke, presente!