Grateful for These
Starfish Moments
“You are unique, and if that is not fulfilled, then something has been lost.”
- Martha Graham ,American Modern Dancer & Choreographer
Ellen Gray and I worked together for over ten years at Fairfax County, VA. She is one of the most positive and uplifting individuals I’ve had the privilege of working with during my 43-year career in local government, including 36 years as a deputy county executive, town manager, and city manager in Northern Virginia. Ellen cares deeply about people, organizations, and the community, and her concern for others is both genuine and unwavering.
She is tireless in helping others reach their full potential and is an expert facilitator—always prepared and completely unflappable. Her situational awareness, political acumen, and emotional intelligence are exceptional. Ellen and I collaborated on several major initiatives, including the development of the Fairfax County Economic Success Strategic Plan and the creation and implementation of the Fairfax County's Joint Training Academy.I could always count on Ellen to be fully present, engaged, and committed to the work. It is my honor to give her the highest possible recommendation.
Robert Stalzer | Fairfax County
"Ellen Gray has been a tremendous resource for me and my team. She is quite competent in helping people discover their strengths, purpose, and passions to perform the best work possible. She creates "safe spaces" to guide her clients as they gain new insights for their desired transformations. The trusting relationships she develops allowed us to explore our better selves and to find effective ways to lead in complex organizations. Her support throughout our process has been rock solid."
Rachel Flynn, AIA | Former Deputy County Executive
Ellen, I wanted to thank you for the incredible job you did on Monday evening running the community meeting. I was impressed and inspired by your ability to listen to and respond not just to the words being shared, but to emotions in the room. I appreciate your ability to help us keep the conversations going in such a constructive manner.
Office of Providence District Supervisor Dalia A. Palchik
“For several years, Ellen Gray provided facilitation, coaching, and mentoring services for our business team. Her thoughtful, creative and engaging approach was a major factor in enhancing and maximizing the performance of our team. Together with the team, she helped to identify weaknesses and worked in a non-threatening manner so we could improve in those areas. Ellen functioned seamlessly with the team to the point she was viewed as a team member.”
Ronald Kirkpatrick | Business Area Leader (Retired)
Northern Virginia Municipality
"I thoroughly enjoyed working with Ellen, she had an even keel style, and the conversations flowed easily. She explained the Positive Intelligence program well and what she believed I could gain from it. I found the Positive Intelligence sessions a great use of my time and enjoyed learning how it could help me grow both professionally and personally."
Sue Yenyo | Director of Sales, CareFirst
Thank you, Ellen! I’ve spent the year feeling supported and heard while finding my footing as a new supervisor. Each time I meet with Ellen, I feel like I’ve gained a fresh perspective and a new way to approach a situation I didn’t have earlier that day. Ellen is a missing member of my team that I’ve always needed and now couldn’t live without.
Coaching sessions with Ellen make you feel heard, understood and supported. Ellen’s guidance and advice helps me support my team to improve their performance and set them up for success every day.
Rachel Jackson-Roth | Land Development Services, Fairfax County
Ellen
Empathic loving leader,
Elegant nuance,
Made of exquisite language.
Utter perseverance, vital ally, equity in action.
An intrinsic dialogue about goals.
Necessary translator of no.
Earnest advice to take a chance.
Her grace remains needled into every intimate talk.
A critical coach.
She makes a difference to this One.
Danielle Badra - Fairfax County
"Working with Ellen has allowed me to expand my view and knowledge on being a better version of myself at work. To lean into my strengths and learning how to stay in Sage mode. She showed me the tools to refine my leadership skills causing a positive effect in my personal goals and strengthening friendships!"
Lindsey Ramos - Website & Content Creator
All Videos
As we were coloring, my four-year old grandson, Robert, turned to me and asked, “how can I be
kind to you?” Right then, my heart melted! But, that simple empathic question triggered the
feedback my clients, students, co-workers have given me over the many years – “Ellen, thank
you for making a difference.”
So, how can I make a difference for YOU?
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