Skip to content

X-Roads Advisory’s George Neighbors Reflects on Inaugural ICF Virginia Summit and role on panel

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

X-Roads Advisory’s George Neighbors Reflects on Inaugural ICF Virginia Summit, Celebrating the Power of Coaching Community

HARRISONBURG/ROCKINGHAM, VA – May 18, 2026 – X-Roads Advisory is pleased to share reflections from George Neighbors following the historic inaugural ICF Virginia Summit held April 28 in Richmond, VA.

The event marked a significant milestone for the International Coaching Federation (ICF) Virginia Chapter, the state's leading professional organization dedicated to advancing the coaching profession. For the business community, ICF Virginia serves as a vital hub connecting organizations with credentialed coaches who drive leadership development, enhance team dynamics, and foster a culture of continuous improvement.

The summit brought together a dynamic group of leaders, practitioners, and visionaries to shape the future of the industry. The atmosphere was electric with enthusiasm and genuine connection. Neighbors, who serves as a Coach, Consultant, and Facilitator at X-Roads Advisory, participated in a pivotal panel discussion hosted by Whitney Newcomb, Ph.D., ACC, NBC-HWC, ACTC. Sharing the stage with distinguished colleagues Kaisha McCrea, MBA, ACC, CCTC; Susan Yantko, MBA, ACC; and Elizabeth DeRosa, PCC, CPC, Neighbors explored the diverse ways the region's coaching landscape is evolving.

"This summit wasn't just an event; it was a testament to the power of our community," said Neighbors. "Standing alongside such talented leaders reminded me why we do this work. The energy in the room highlighted how we are collectively shaping a future where coaching drives meaningful transformation across all sectors.”

The event featured inspiring keynote addresses from Yedda Stancil of Innerwork Circle and Dahlia Tett, Ed.D., CHES of Northern Virginia Community College, who challenged attendees to look deeper into the heart of their practice. The summit also highlighted the "fully human" intelligence brought by experts like Alexa Beavers and Kellie Jenkins of The Axela Group, as well as critical insights from Melina Davis, CEO of the Medical Society of Virginia, regarding the vital role of coaching within the medical profession.

Neighbors expressed deep gratitude to the organizing team whose dedication turned a concept into a reality. He specifically acknowledged the masterful collaboration of Terry McDougall, PCC, MBA; Dorian Cunion, ACC, MBA; Art Akerman, PCC; and Suzanne Currier, PCC. The event was further elevated by the hosting talents of Erin Lingo, CPBC, ACC, and the welcoming presence of Donna Oard at registration.

"The learning didn't stop at the panels," Neighbors noted. "From the infectious team coaching energy brought by Kimberley Lewis Parsons to the profound insights shared by our keynote speakers, the day reinforced that our work transcends industries. It is about empowering individuals and strengthening the fabric of our communities."

As a leader in professional development, George Neighbors continues to champion innovative approaches to coaching and organizational growth. Through X-Roads Advisory, he remains dedicated to facilitating dialogue and strategy that builds resilience and capacity for leaders across the Shenandoah Valley and beyond.

"Let's carry this momentum forward," Neighbors concluded. "The inaugural ICF Virginia Summit proved that when we come together, we create pathways for opportunity that benefit us all."

Neighbors serves the local professional coaching community as founder and co-leader of the Shenandoah Valley hub ICF along with co-leader Lori Pyle.

About X-Roads Advisory 

X-Roads Advisory led by Principal George Neighbors, empowers leaders and teams to navigate change, grow with purpose and build resilience.

As a trusted partner for change management & professional development to build capacity, develop talent, evolve culture, optimize team dynamics & strengthen communication, X-Roads Advisory offers award-winning coaching, consulting and facilitation services at the individual, team, group, enterprise & community levels across corporate, government, nonprofit & education sectors. 

For more information, visit www.X-RoadsAdvisory.com or connect with George Neighbors on LinkedIn.