UMFS: An Organizational Development Case Study
UMFS, a nonprofit committed to serving children and families across Virginia, partnered with The Spark Mill (TSM) to strengthen leadership effectiveness and organizational alignment. Under the guidance of President & CEO Nancy Toscano, the organization sought to amplify the capabilities of its Senior Leadership Team, especially as new members joined and team dynamics evolved. Through an invitation from a campus partner in the Generosity Collective, Nancy connected with Consultant Chris Bennett of TSM and quickly saw impact in his facilitation style and approach.
What followed was a multi-phase organizational development engagement encompassing a deep dive into Conscious Leadership and the Enneagram, professional development for their Senior Leadership Team, and leadership coaching for emerging and established leaders. These practices were woven into both team development and individual growth journeys across UMFS's leadership structure. The approach was not about applying a one-size-fits-all model.
These initiatives were not necessarily implemented to correct an existing problem but to refine and elevate an already strong leadership team. The work focused on developing shared language, reinforcing healthy communication norms, and aligning behaviors with the organization’s leadership values. It also supported the onboarding of new leaders by creating a structured cultural and operational framework.
The integration of Conscious Leadership and the Enneagram helped leaders engage in meaningful inner work, increasing both self-awareness and interpersonal effectiveness. As team members gained clarity around their strengths, tendencies, and “zones of genius,” collaboration improved and understanding deepened. The Conscious Leadership framework helped the Senior Leadership Team create a renewed leadership ethos. While some outcomes were unexpected like shifts in team composition and role realignment, the changes reflected a deep internalization of the work. Nancy noted, even skeptics became champions.
UMFS ensured the sustainability of this work by embedding it into operational practices and leadership development. The Conscious Leadership framework complemented existing leadership models, offering tools that supported both internal team dynamics and external service delivery. By bringing in an outside consultant, the organization was able to create a level playing field for training and development, ensuring that even those already trained in the models could engage from a fresh, unified perspective.
The partnership with The Spark Mill ultimately provided more than tools — it created a space for courageous leadership and honest reflection. With the intentional and human-centered nature of the work, UMFS not only anchored its values in everyday operations, but deepened team integrity and cohesion. Crucially, the work didn’t stay confined to the leadership team — it permeated how UMFS engaged its broader mission.
