“I define connection as the energy that exists between people when they feel seen, heard and valued; when they can give and receive without judgment; and when they derive sustenance and strength from the relationship.”- Brené Brown
Amiko is a cross-sector leader with more than 25 years of experience developing people, programs and partnerships for the public good. She is passionate about helping people be the best version of themselves and directly applies this to her work as a director for design and facilitation and as a seasoned executive coach at the Partnership‘s Public Service Leadership Institute.
In addition to having extensive expertise in the higher education and nonprofit sectors, Amiko draws from her experience as a former career and political federal employee who managed diverse teams, navigated complex stakeholder relationships and led agencywide initiatives. She brings this hands-on experience to her leadership development and coaching work, which is now exclusively focused on federal clients. She connects equally well with emerging leaders and senior executives. Her commitment to their growth and development is evident in every conversation. Amiko encourages pragmatic perspective taking, brings a focus on equitable solutions to her coaching engagements and masterfully connects values and purpose to effective leadership competencies.
Her clients credit their work with Amiko for their increased confidence in the ability to lead, a deeper understanding and appreciation of their authentic leadership style, a better sense of how to navigate personal and professional challenges, and a renewed sense of purpose.
Education, Training, and Certifications
- B.A. in English from Westmont College
- M.Ed. in Higher Education and Student Affairs Administration from University of Vermont
- M.A. in Education and Human Development from George Washington University
- Executive Certificate in Leadership Coaching (North Carolina State University Leadership Coaching for Organizational Performance)
- Conant Leadership Boot Camp
- Women in Leadership and Learning Program
- Aspen Ideas Festival Scholar
- ICF Professional Certified Coach (ACC)
- Senior Certified Professional, Society for Human Resource Management
Assessment Certifications
Public Service Leadership Model 360 Assessment; Center for Creative Leadership Benchmarks© 360 Suite; DiSC Assessment
Personal
Originally from Southern California, Amiko has embraced life on the East Coast. She and her husband live in the Washington, D.C., metro area. They have two children; one in college and another in high school. Amiko has served on local and national boards focusing on homelessness, youth leadership, civil and human rights, and higher education. She’s lived in six states and visited more than 10 countries. She readily welcomes travel and book recommendations.