The Excellence in Government (EIG) Fellows Program is distinguished by its commitment to providing fellows with unparalleled leadership coaching. Our Eig Partners, a select group of executive coaches, are the cornerstone of this program, offering invaluable guidance and support to government leaders. These seasoned professionals bring decades of experience across diverse sectors, including government, private industry, and non-profit organizations. They are dedicated to fostering growth, enhancing leadership capabilities, and driving positive change within the public sector. Get to know the expert coaches who empower the EIG Fellows Program participants to achieve their highest potential:
Alison Miller: Strategic Leadership and Organizational Effectiveness Expert
Alison Miller stands out as a highly experienced leadership coach and advisor specializing in strategic planning, organizational effectiveness, and leadership development. With over 25 years in the field, Alison has held executive positions in technology, management, and human capital consulting firms. Her direct responsibility for multimillion-dollar budgets and the development of over 100 professionals underscores her deep understanding of leadership and organizational dynamics. Alison’s expertise lies in helping organizations and leaders articulate their strategic vision, align organizational goals, and effectively manage change. She excels at facilitating clear communication and fostering strong relationships with customers, stakeholders, and employees alike.
Alison’s coaching specialties include organizational assessment and development, individual and team coaching, and the delivery of impactful leadership development training programs. Clients frequently seek her guidance on crucial areas such as developing and communicating vision and goals, enhancing executive presence, improving emotional intelligence, strengthening influencing skills, managing conflict constructively, setting clear performance expectations, providing effective feedback, motivating teams, and maximizing employee engagement. As an EIG partner, Alison provides practical, insightful coaching, understanding the pressures of complex, high-stakes environments. She collaborates closely with clients to cultivate self-awareness regarding their mindsets and behaviors, encouraging the adoption of new skills and perspectives. Her customized support, tailored to each client’s unique goals and circumstances, incorporates valuable resources and frameworks to reinforce learning and establish lasting positive habits. Clients consistently praise Alison for her insightful questions, direct feedback, and best-practice guidance, which empowers them to see, think, and lead in transformative ways.
Alison’s academic credentials include a B.S. in Electrical and Computer Engineering from Clarkson University and an M.B.A. from Cornell University’s Johnson School of Management. She is also a graduate of Georgetown University’s Leadership Coaching program and holds a Professional Certified Coaching (PCC) credential from the International Coaching Federation (ICF). Furthermore, Alison is certified in a range of assessment tools, including the Bar-On Emotional Quotient-Inventory (EQ-i), Conflict Dynamics Profile (CDP), Fundamental Interpersonal Relations Orientation (FIRO) Element B, Klein Group Instrument for Leadership and Team Effectiveness, Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), and the Thomas Kilmann Conflict Mode Instrument (TKI). Her ongoing studies in positive psychology and applied neuroscience further enrich her coaching practice, ensuring she remains at the forefront of leadership development.
Becky Lee: CIA and Korn/Ferry Veteran in Executive Coaching
Becky Lee brings over thirty years of distinguished experience from the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) and Korn/Ferry, where she served as a Senior Consultant. Her government career highlights include the design and implementation of an award-winning, experiential leadership program for the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) and the establishment of a coaching program at the CIA, which has thrived for over 15 years. As an EIG partner, Becky leverages her extensive background to deliver innovative organization development consulting and executive coaching.
Recognized for her exceptional ability to connect with leaders, Becky is adept at fostering self-awareness and driving tangible business results. She coaches leaders across all levels within the Intelligence Community, as well as in other government agencies and the private sector. Beyond individual coaching, Becky excels in designing and delivering high-impact leadership development programs. Her expertise as an EIG partner is grounded in a deep understanding of organizational dynamics and leadership challenges.
Becky is accredited in numerous 360-degree and self-assessment tools, including Benchmarks, VOICES, Myers-Briggs Type Indicator®, FIRO-B®, Hogan assessment tools, and the Bar-On Emotional Quotient Inventory. Her diverse toolkit allows for a comprehensive and tailored approach to leadership development. She holds a certificate in organization development from Georgetown University and is an Associate Certified Coach with the International Coach Federation. Becky’s academic foundation includes a Master of Science degree in college student personnel and counseling from the University of Tennessee and a Bachelor of Arts degree in liberal arts from Virginia Tech, providing her with a strong base in human behavior and development.
Christine R. Williams: Pioneer in Neuroscience-Based Leadership Development
Christine R. Williams, a distinguished EIG partner, boasts over 25 years of experience in designing and implementing cutting-edge programs and strategies focused on enhancing organizational and individual performance. Her programs are widely recognized as world-class, meeting the highest standards in both industry and government. Chris is a sought-after international speaker on leadership development, organizational change, executive coaching, and the application of neuroscience to improve employee learning and organizational effectiveness. Her innovative approaches make her a valuable asset to the EIG program.
Before co-founding the consulting division of Otto-Williams Limited, Chris held key leadership roles at NASA. She served as Director of several of NASA’s most successful agency-wide leadership development programs, including the NASA Executive Coaching Program and the Systems Engineering Leadership Development Program. For over two decades, Chris played a pivotal role in developing the next generation of leaders at NASA, consistently ranked among the top federal government workplaces. Her contributions as an EIG partner draw upon this rich experience.
Chris’s numerous accolades include the Leadership in Action Award from the Council for Excellence in Government, NASA’s Outstanding Leadership Medal, External Achievement Award, Creative Management Award, Innovative Management Award, and Space Flight Awareness Award. She is an active member of the Advisory Boards of the Neuroleadership Institute and The Conference Board’s Executive Coaching Conference, staying at the forefront of her field. Chris holds a BS in Oceanography and graduated Summa Cum Laude from The Johns Hopkins University with an MS in Organizational Development and Applied Behavioral Science. She also holds a certificate in business management from Harvard Business School and a Professional Coaching Certification from the Newfield Network, demonstrating her commitment to continuous learning and excellence as an EIG partner.
Claudio Toyama: Global Leadership and Peak Performance Culture Architect
Claudio Toyama, CEO of Toyama&Co., a leadership consultancy specializing in building sustainable peak performance cultures, is a key EIG partner. His mission is to empower senior leaders to embody authentic leadership, thereby maximizing their impact. Claudio has consulted in 113 countries, demonstrating a truly global reach and perspective. His expertise lies in creating paradigm shifts in corporate culture, fostering more thoughtful leadership, and cultivating brand ambassadors among staff and customers. Clients consistently feel and embrace the positive changes resulting from his coaching.
Claudio is an ICF-PCC certified executive coach and an Adjunct Faculty member at the Institute for Transformational Leadership at Georgetown University. He is also the author of the best-selling book “The Samurai Samba Vinci Way: How to Improve Your Executive Presence, Increase Trust and Lead Your Team at a World-Class Level.” His unique coaching approach, valued by the EIG program, blends Eastern and Western philosophies, providing a transformative “Sacred Space” for leadership development.
A lifelong learner, Claudio holds a BA in Business Administration, graduate degrees in Marketing, Strategy, and Communication Studies, and a Masters Degree in Interactive Multimedia. He is a graduate of Newfield Network in Ontological Coaching and the Institute for Generative Leadership in Coaching Excellence in Organizations. Claudio’s diverse educational background and global experience make him an invaluable EIG partner, capable of guiding leaders to achieve peak performance and create lasting organizational change.
Felícita Solá-Carter: Federal Human Capital and Executive Leadership Expertise
Felícita Solá-Carter (“Feli”), an esteemed EIG partner, retired from her position as Assistant Deputy Commissioner for Human Resources and Deputy Chief Human Capital Officer of the Social Security Administration (SSA), a top-ranked federal workplace. In this role, she shared national leadership for critical programs, including Personnel, Training, Civil Rights and Equal Opportunity, Labor, Management and Employee Relations, Human Capital Planning, and Executive Services Support. Her deep understanding of federal human capital management is a significant asset to the EIG program.
A native of Puerto Rico, Feli began her distinguished career with the SSA in New York City, progressing into managerial roles before joining the Office of the Commissioner in Baltimore as Senior Advisor to the Principal Deputy Commissioner—the first Hispanic individual to hold this position. In 1998, she became the first Puerto Rican woman appointed to the Senior Executive Service at the Social Security Administration, serving as Associate Commissioner for the Office of Training. Her groundbreaking career exemplifies her leadership and dedication to public service, qualities she brings to her role as an EIG partner.
Feli’s honors include a 2004 Presidential Rank Award of Meritorious Executive and a 2005 Presidential Rank Award of Distinguished Executive, the highest recognition for a career federal executive. An Excellence in Government Coach since 2009, Feli continues to work with various federal, local, and non-profit organizations. Active in her community, she serves on the Board of Trustees of The Horizon Foundation and is the former President of Conexiones of Howard County. A graduate of Leadership Howard County and a Maryland Top 100 Women honoree, Feli was inducted into the Howard County Women’s Hall of Fame in 2014, highlighting her enduring impact and commitment as an EIG partner.
Monica Thakrar: Strategy, Change Management, and Team Dynamics Specialist
Monica Thakrar, an accomplished EIG partner, brings over 15 years of expertise in strategy, organizational change management, leadership development, training, and executive coaching. Her work is underpinned by a profound understanding of human and organizational development, gained through years of collaboration with large-scale organizations, executives, mid-managers, and individuals. Monica excels at leading change initiatives, building strong interpersonal relationships, creating high-functioning teams, enhancing leadership capabilities, and fostering collaboration across organizational boundaries.
She has a proven track record of helping individuals and organizations improve effectiveness, enhance efficiency, and build capacity in leading people, managing change, and strengthening relationships. Monica’s diverse client portfolio includes private sector giants like Marriott and Lucent, public sector entities such as the US Department of Homeland Security and NASA, and international organizations including the Central Bank of Jordan. Her breadth of experience makes her a highly versatile and effective EIG partner.
Monica is a graduate of Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service and holds a Masters in International Trade and Business from Columbia University. She is also a graduate of Newfield Network’s organizational coaching program. An ACC certified coach through the International Coach Federation, Monica is certified in a wide array of assessments, including Myers Briggs, DISC, Center for Creative Leadership (CCL) 360 Suite, LEI 360, EQ-I 2.0, Change Style Indicator, and Healthy Leader Profile. This comprehensive skill set enables her to provide targeted and impactful coaching as an EIG partner.
Sheryl D. Phillips, M.A.: Leadership Consultant and Georgetown University Faculty
Sheryl D. Phillips, M.A., is a seasoned leadership consultant and executive coach who has partnered with leaders for over 25 years to foster more effective and forward-thinking organizations. Working at individual, team, and system levels, Sheryl provides executive coaching, leadership development, organizational development, and strategic business planning. As an EIG partner, her deep expertise significantly enhances the program’s offerings. Sheryl is also a faculty member at Georgetown University’s Leadership Coaching Program (since 2001) and the Institute for Transformational Leadership at Georgetown, further cementing her authority in the field.
Prior to establishing her private practice in 2001, Sheryl spent a decade as a Senior Executive, providing her with firsthand understanding of the challenges leaders face, particularly in complex, large-scale environments. This experience informs her practical and empathetic coaching approach as an EIG partner. Sheryl works extensively with leadership teams to enhance communication, coordination, strategic planning, and operational effectiveness. She has provided executive coaching to hundreds of clients across the public, non-profit, and corporate sectors, both in the US and internationally, demonstrating her broad impact as an EIG partner.
Sheryl holds a Master’s degree from the College of William and Mary and a Bachelor’s degree from Auburn University. She is a Certified Professional Coach by the Newfield Network and a certified Somatic Coach by The Strozzi Institute. Her credentials also include a certificate in Organizational Learning from George Mason University and graduation from the Harvard Kennedy School’s program for leadership practitioners. Qualified as a Myers-Briggs Administrator and certified in leadership assessment instruments from leading organizations like the Center for Creative Leadership and The Leadership Circle, Sheryl is also a contributing author to On Becoming a Leadership Coach (Palgrave 2008), reinforcing her status as a thought leader and valued EIG partner. Her recent clients include Capital One, PriceWaterhouse Coopers, and numerous government agencies, highlighting her broad appeal and effectiveness.
Solly Thomas: Federal Leadership and Human Capital Management Veteran
Solly Thomas, a dedicated EIG partner, brings over 30 years of experience in federal agency and program leadership and management. He has held executive-level positions in both the public and private sectors, including Executive Director, Chief Operating Officer, Chief of Staff, and Acting Associate Director for Human Capital in the Federal Government. His private sector experience includes roles as an Associate Partner at IBM Corporation and as an Executive Coach/Instructor for federal leadership programs. Solly’s extensive public and private sector background makes him a uniquely qualified EIG partner.
Solly has served as an Executive Coach/Instructor for the Excellence in Government Fellows program since 2009, demonstrating his long-term commitment to the EIG program. His coaching experience includes interagency programs and cohorts from the U.S. Department of Education and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Fellows program. Solly also serves as an Instructor for the Senior Executive Assessment Program sponsored by the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM). His deep involvement in government leadership development programs underscores his expertise.
Prior to his coaching career, Solly was a consultant at IBM Corporation, providing human capital consulting and thought leadership to the federal sector. He served as a project executive, drafted human capital publications, and conducted conferences and workshops. Before retiring from federal service in 2006, Solly was the Acting Associate Director for Human Capital at OPM, leading government-wide programs focused on leadership development, succession planning, talent management, and performance management. He also managed the Senior Executive Service programs and served as an Executive in Residence and acting Center Director at the OPM Eastern Management Development Center. Solly’s prior Senior Executive positions include Executive Director of the Federal Labor Relations Authority and Chief of Staff to the Chairman of the U.S. International Trade Commission. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics from the University of Notre Dame.
Steven E. Jones, Ph.D.: Organizational Change and Workplace Effectiveness Catalyst
Steven E. Jones, Ph.D., an experienced EIG partner, has held senior leadership positions in both private and public organizations, spearheading significant change initiatives. With over 18 years of experience in facilitation, coaching, and training, Steven focuses on building more effective workplaces. He develops coaching and training protocols that transform skills in leadership, team building, and communication. His practical approach and focus on tangible results make him a valuable EIG partner.
Steven provides executive coaching to leaders across diverse sectors, including foundations like the Annie E. Casey Foundation, nonprofits, banking institutions such as Shore Bank, and federal government agencies including the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Federal Aviation Administration. He has been an Excellence in Government Fellows leadership development coach since 2002, demonstrating his long-standing dedication to the EIG program and its mission. Steven’s broad client base and extensive experience underscore his effectiveness as an EIG partner in driving organizational improvement and leadership excellence.
Tom Fox: Entrepreneur, Executive, and Leadership Advisor
Tom Fox, a highly respected EIG partner, draws on over 20 years of experience as an entrepreneur, executive, and coach to offer leaders practical strategies for enhancing both their professional and personal lives. Tom has worked with thousands of leaders, from emerging professionals to seasoned executives, across the federal government, non-profit sector, and private sector start-ups. His coaching empowers leaders to build high-performing teams, navigate complex conflicts, launch successful initiatives, manage change effectively, achieve career advancement, and find work-life balance. Tom’s pragmatic advice and broad experience make him an invaluable EIG partner.
Tom is an International Coach Federation (ICF)-certified coach, a graduate of Marshall Goldsmith’s LEAD 60 coaching program, and a graduate of Georgetown University’s Leadership Coaching program. He is also certified in various assessment tools, including the MHS Emotional Intelligence 360 assessment and assessments from the Center for Creative Leadership. For over eight years, Tom authored the “Federal Coach” column for The Washington Post, interviewing approximately 500 leaders and providing advice to thousands of weekly readers. His insights have been featured in The New York Times, NBC Nightly News, and CNN. Tom’s prior experience includes roles at the Partnership for Public Service, Andersen Consulting, the Government Accountability Office, the U.S. Senate, and the White House, providing him with a comprehensive understanding of leadership across sectors. His extensive media presence and diverse background enhance his credibility and effectiveness as an EIG partner.
