Practical Pathways to Organizational Effectiveness: Culture, Leadership, and Strategic Narrative

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Peggy McElgunn has over forty years of experience working with nonprofit trade associations, professional societies, and accrediting organizations. Peggy has worked with over fifty national and international nonprofit organizations. While her role has been primarily as the Executive Director or CEO, she has held positions at all levels and managing all aspects of nonprofit work. Peggy’s success has been due not only to her creativity but also to successful support and recognition of the volunteers and consumers with whom she has worked. Her research and understanding of both leaders’ and members’ specific expertise and interests has resulted in expanded support and organizational growth. As a founder of a company dedicated to serving nonprofit organizations, her entrepreneurial skills including innovation, marketing, sales and operations systems development have been instrumental in this environment. Peggy holds a BA in Political Science and Economics from the University of Rochester where she received a Certificate in International Relations simultaneously. She also holds a Juris Doctorate degree from George Mason University. Peggy is a member of the Virginia State Bar and is licensed to practice law before all Virginia State Courts and Federal Courts in the Fourth District.

Zach McElgunn is a seasoned healthcare and human services professional with a decade of experience supporting organizations’ research, accreditation, and implementation efforts. He began his career as a research assistant at the University of Virginia, where he honed his skills in statistical analysis, behavioral health narrative analysis, and poster presentations. Since that time, Zach has partnered with numerous organizations to: achieve accreditations and certifications, develop and deliver continuing education programs, and implement evidence-based practices (EBPs). Guiding organizations through the process of obtaining and maintaining industry-recognized standards, Zach finds both curiosity and passion in the opportunity to enhance the professional development of healthcare and human services staff. Zach has presented at national and international conferences on topics such as evidence-based practice selection, implementation science and practice, organizational culture, and workforce development (recruitment, retention, and performance). His work and experience currently sit at the intersection of accreditation, EBP implementation, organizational culture, and self-determination theory, allowing him to provide detailed perspective and analysis of efforts to improve organizational performance and outcomes.

Charles R. Robinson is an experienced leader in state and federal community corrections, currently serving as Deputy Chief of the Probation and Pretrial Services Office at the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts. With over 25 years of experience, Charles has become a national voice in translating research into meaningful policy and practice for community supervision agencies. A frequent speaker and trainer, Charles specializes in helping organizations evolve—structurally, culturally, and behaviorally—to meet the demands of modern justice systems. His work focuses on building high-performing, learning-driven organizations that use data and strategy to improve outcomes. He has led national initiatives that have reshaped training, leadership development, and implementation strategies across the federal probation and pretrial system. In this session, Charles brings a blend of practical leadership experience, knowledge of organizational change, and a passion for empowering justice professionals. Expect an interactive and forward-thinking conversation that challenges assumptions and sparks innovation.