About Lisa

Lisa is an accomplished educator, strategist, and student success leader with over two decades of experience guiding learners toward academic excellence, postsecondary planning, and career development. Throughout her career, Lisa has led large-scale student success initiatives, improved literacy and learning outcomes, and developed innovative programs that empower both students and educators to thrive.

Lisa is an Ontario Certified Teacher in Toronto, Canada.  She holds a Honours Bachelor of Arts in Economics and English from University of Toronto, Bachelor of Education from OISE | University of Toronto and a Master of Education from York University.  Additionally, she earned specialist qualifications in Guidance and Career Education, Special Education, English, and the Principal Qualification Program Part 1 and Part 2.  

Her professional experience includes:

• Student Success and Guidance Counselling: Designing and leading programs to enhance engagement, achievement, and graduation rates.
• Postsecondary and Scholarship Planning: Assisting students and families with competitive admissions, scholarship applications, and academic goal setting.
• Career Development and Coaching: Equipping students with the skills, networks, and confidence to excel in today’s evolving workplace.
• International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme: Over a decade of teaching Higher Level IB English, supervising Extended Essays, and serving on admissions and selection committees.
• School Effectiveness and Educational Innovation: Leading teams, developing student success initiatives, and advancing educational excellence.
• Undergraduate and Graduate Mentorship: Mentoring students at the University of Toronto (Woodsworth College and Ontario Institute for Studies in Education).

Appleby Scholars was founded on Lisa’s belief that students thrive when they are guided by purpose, challenged by meaningful learning, and supported by mentorship.   Lisa has partnered with hundreds of students and families, combining her academic expertise with practical career insights to prepare students for top-tier scholarships, university admissions, and leadership opportunities. She is passionate about unlocking potential and equipping students with the tools to succeed academically, professionally, and personally. 

Lisa's greatest teachers are her two children, Henry and Catherine.