The 2026 Gaston Award
Each year ICF Minnesota recognizes a member who has exhibited distinguished service to the coaching profession and to the chapter.
Sara Cross has dedicated years of service to advancing coaching in Minnesota and beyond. Her leadership journey with ICF Minnesota began as Secretary and continued through increasingly impactful roles as President-Elect, President, and Past President. Following her board service, she remained deeply engaged through professional development initiatives, mentoring, and volunteer leadership, consistently investing her time and talents to strengthen the coaching community.
Throughout her tenure, Sara has been a passionate advocate for the coaching profession. She represented ICF Minnesota on both national and international stages, sharing insights and elevating the visibility of coaching beyond chapter boundaries. She also traveled to Capitol Hill to advocate for the profession, championing the value and impact of coaching with policymakers and stakeholders.
Sara is known for her ability to bring people together, create meaningful connections, and help others recognize their potential. Whether facilitating leadership discussions, mentoring fellow coaches, supporting chapter initiatives, or speaking on behalf of the profession, she leads with authenticity, generosity, and an unwavering commitment to service. Colleagues often describe her as someone who sees possibilities in others before they see them in themselves.
What makes Sara's contribution especially significant is its lasting impact. The leaders she has mentored, the coaches she has supported, and the initiatives she helped advance continue to influence ICF Minnesota today. Her work has never been about recognition; it has always been about elevating others and strengthening the profession she loves.
Through her leadership, advocacy, professionalism, and selfless service, Sara Cross exemplifies the spirit of the Gaston Award and the enduring values of ICF Minnesota.