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Legacies Leadership Group

About Dr. V. Lynette McElhaney

Founder | Executive Coach | Keynote Speaker
Known to clients as “Coach V”

Empowering Leaders to Lead with Legacy

Dr. V. Lynette McElhaney — widely known as Coach V — is a transformational leadership expert, keynote speaker, and founder of Legacies Leadership Group. With over 25 years of experience across public service, organizational development, and executive coaching, she is committed to empowering mission-driven leaders to create lasting, positive change.


Coach V partners with healthcare executives, education professionals, public sector leaders, and purpose-driven organizations to help them elevate their leadership, expand their influence, and transform their institutions. Her signature approach, Lead with Legacies, is rooted in the belief that leadership is not just about personal success — it’s about lifting others as we climb.

Trailblazer. Advocate. Change-Maker.

Coach V made history as the first Black woman elected President of the Oakland City Council, where she led during critical moments of crisis and progress. She pioneered the nation’s first Department of Violence Prevention, and championed policies that addressed systemic injustice and community healing.


Her leadership is not just strategic — it’s deeply personal. Following the tragic loss of her son Victor, she founded the Victor McElhaney Foundation, which uses music and the arts to foster healing, belonging, and social justice for young people. Her advocacy ensures that no youth is left behind.

A Life of Excellence and Impact

Dr. V’s academic journey began at UC Berkeley and led to receiving an honorary doctorate from Mills College, recognizing her lifelong commitment to equity and leadership. She is a certified Maxwell Leadership coach and was named one of the “Most Influential Women in Bay Area Business” by the San Francisco Business Times.

Whether she’s leading a boardroom conversation or mentoring a new generation of changemakers, Coach V brings vision, wisdom, and deep care to every engagement.

Keynote Speaking

Inspiring, high-impact talks that move audiences to lead with purpose and vision.

Executive Coaching

One-on-one strategic guidance to help leaders grow, lead confidently, and drive results.

Strategic Advisory

Expert insight to navigate complexity, align vision with action, and lead transformational change.

Media Interviews

Thoughtful commentary and compelling stories that elevate conversations on leadership, equity, and impact.

Available for Speaking, Consulting & Strategic Engagements

With decades of real-world experience, Coach V empowers organizations to lead with clarity, confidence, and lasting influence.

Book a call with Coach V