July 2026: President's Message
Posted on Jun. 29, 2026 / President's Message / Subscribe 0
In this month’s Message from Our President, Alex Wallash speaks with Bridget Ornelas, the Director of Memberships for ICF San Francisco Bay Area. Bridget is now in her third year serving on the board. She previously spent two years as Director of Partnerships and Sponsorships.
Bridget’s journey into coaching leadership started unexpectedly. In 2019, when her company relocated out of state, she saw it as permission to explore coaching more deeply. During her training, she found her first tribe with her coaching teammates and wanted to expand that sense of community. After joining ICF, she met a board member who encouraged her to apply for a position.
When sharing with Alex why she serves on the board, Bridget explained that she's drawn to the balance between being part of a team and leading one. She values the connection and collaboration that comes from being part of something bigger than herself.
As Director of Memberships, Bridget sees herself as one of the first touchpoints for new members. Her goal is simple but profound: help people feel welcome, connected, and pointed in the right direction as quickly as possible. She provides guidance on how to get the most out of membership and how to start connecting right away.
At the end of every membership call, Bridget shares an insight that captures the essence of what ICF really offers: "People join the ICF to maintain or get their next credential, but they end up staying because of the connections they build."
Over the last six months, Bridget has created new member orientations that cover where to find ICF SF programs (many offered virtually), how to attend a first in-person event, and how to get involved with volunteering for those who want to dive deeper into the community.
Meet Bridget and Alex as well as other members of the Board at the ICF SFBAC chapter's Coaches Summit on September 18 at the Exploratorium.
Learn more and register now.
0 Comments