Sherri Adams
Director of DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging)
Tell us about your coaching business and what drew you to this profession.
After spending a decade as an Associate Director of Human Resources, Valdosta State University, I found myself naturally asking impactful questions and advocating for diversity, equity, and belonging long before those concepts became widely recognized. During my time as a Senior Human Resources Business Partner, my leader encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone by participating in a coaching program—not for certification, but for growth. This experience ignited a passion for coaching that has woven itself through every role I've held since, whether as a change agent, organizational effectiveness consultant, assistant professor, or L&D professional.
Coaching has become my cornerstone, requiring the ability to ask impactful questions, listen deeply, and ensure everyone feels valued. This journey led me to pursue my ACC certification independently, and I’m now advancing toward my ACTC and MCC.
What truly draws me to coaching is the opportunity to help individuals and teams unlock their potential. At the heart of my coaching philosophy lies a commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB). I believe that each person brings a unique perspective that enriches our organizations. My mission is to cultivate environments where everyone feels heard, valued, and empowered to thrive—transforming challenges into opportunities for growth and connection.
Training, credentials and certifications as a professional coach.
I hold a diverse range of training, credentials, and certifications that reflect my commitment to excellence in coaching and leadership development. As an Associate Certified Coach (ACC) through the International Coaching Federation (ICF), I adhere to the highest ethical standards and practices in coaching. Additionally, I have completed the Advanced Accreditation in Team Coaching (ACTC) from Beckett McInroy Consultancy, enhancing my ability to foster collaboration and high performance within teams.
My educational background includes a Ph.D. in Management & Organizational Leadership, equipping me with a solid understanding of organizational behavior, leadership theories, and adult learning principles. I also completed a Conflict Resolution and Mediation program from Colorado State University, which provides me with essential skills to navigate challenging conversations effectively.
Further enriching my coaching toolbox, I hold certifications in Working Genius from The Table Group, INSIGHTS Discovery, and Crucial Conversations from Crucial Learning. I have earned a Master Trainer Designation from the Association for Talent Development (ATD) and a Professional in Human Resources (PHR) certification from the HR Certification Institute (HRCI).
Currently, I am pursuing my Master Certified Coach (MCC) credential, having completed 200 hours of coaching, and I am attending the Team and Board Coaching AATC program from CoachME. With over 20 years of experience in human resources and leadership development, I leverage these credentials to empower leaders and teams on their growth journeys, fostering inclusive and effective environments.
Describe what you hope to gain and contribute as a member of the board.
As a candidate for the position of Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) on the ICF Board, I am excited about the opportunity to bring my skills of wonder and curiosity to this vital role. I believe these qualities are essential for exploring new perspectives and fostering deeper connections among diverse communities. My goal is to leverage my experience in human resources, academia/research, and leadership development to create meaningful initiatives that prioritize inclusivity and elevate underrepresented voices in coaching.
I hope to gain insights from my fellow board members that will enrich my understanding of how ICF can enhance its commitment to DEIB within the coaching profession and beyond. I envision implementing programs that empower coaches to lead with empathy and understanding, allowing them to create environments where everyone feels valued and heard.
By fostering a culture of belonging within ICF, I aim to inspire a new generation of coaches who embrace curiosity and wonder as they engage with their communities. Together, we can cultivate an environment where all individuals are encouraged to share their unique experiences, ultimately driving meaningful change in the coaching landscape.
ICF-CO is committed to diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging. Please describe where you are personally in relation to DEIB work and how you see it applying to the role(s) you are applying for.
My journey in Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) has been both personal and professional, deeply influencing my approach as a coach and leader. I’ve seen firsthand how diverse perspectives enrich organizations and drive innovation, and I am passionate about creating spaces where everyone feels valued and heard. Personally, I strive to embrace inclusivity in my daily interactions and decisions, continually educating myself on different cultures and experiences to foster understanding.
In my previous roles, I have actively promoted DEIB initiatives, collaborating with teams to develop inclusive training programs and resources. I believe that by prioritizing DEIB, we can enhance not only individual growth but also overall organizational effectiveness. As I apply for the ICF Board position, I see DEIB as central to the mission of supporting our members and the broader coaching community.
In this role, I aim to advocate for programs that celebrate diverse voices and ensure equitable access to coaching resources. By leveraging my experience in human resources and leadership development, I hope to contribute to an environment where every coach can thrive, ultimately enriching the coaching profession and fostering a culture of belonging that extends beyond our community. Together, we can create a coaching landscape that truly reflects the diversity of our society.
Short Bio
Dr. Sherri Adams is a passionate Learning & Development leader with over 20 years of experience in human resources and leadership coaching. She holds a Ph.D. in Management & Organizational Leadership and has dedicated her career to empowering individuals and teams to unlock their potential. Her journey has been shaped by a commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB), which she integrates into her coaching philosophy. Sherri’s work emphasizes creating inclusive environments where every voice is valued, and everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Currently serving as the Global Learning & Development Principal at Conga Corporation, Sherri has successfully led initiatives that enhance employee engagement and operational efficiency. Her experience extends to academia, where she teaches business and management courses, continually inspiring the next generation of leaders. With certifications in various coaching methodologies, including the Advanced Accreditation in Team Coaching, Sherri is dedicated to fostering growth and connection in all her endeavors. She is excited to contribute her skills of curiosity and collaboration to the ICF Board, advocating for a coaching community that celebrates diversity and fosters a culture of belonging.