With more than 30 years’ experience in education and Principal of MLC School since 2018, Lisa’s nomination recognises exceptional leadership in girls’ education – at MLC School and across the broader education sector.

In 2025, MLC School achieved record enrolments and strengthened academic performance through a sharpened focus on teaching and learning.

Lisa also led significant long-term initiatives for the School, including securing NSW Government approval for the Performing Arts and Sports Centre complex, progressing the state-significant planning process, and finalising MLC School’s Master Plan. In innovation, she championed the responsible adoption of artificial intelligence – supporting staff with clear governance and risk-management frameworks around privacy, data security and academic integrity.

Highlights from 2025 include:

Junior School: More than 88% of Year 3 and Year 5 students achieved Strong or Exceeding results in both English and Numeracy in NAPLAN.

Senior School: 53% of Year 12 students achieved an ATAR of 90 or above (open entry, non-selective).

Co-curricular: Most improved school in IGSA athletics and Tildesley tennis, plus Archdale debating winners.

STEM: A dedicated STEM Coordinator, a new STEM lab and national success in robotics, including the introduction of the VEX robotics program.

Service and inclusion: Strengthened service-learning opportunities and values-led initiatives that support a safe, inclusive community.

Beyond MLC School, Lisa’s influence is widely recognised through senior leadership and board roles. In 2025 she served as Chair of the Association of Heads of Independent Girls’ Schools (IGSA), sits on the Board of the Association of Heads of Independent Schools of Australia (AHISA), and is Deputy Chair of the Round Square worldwide network of innovative schools.

'Over Lisa’s five-year tenure on the Board she has been an exemplar role model and leader in girls’ education… Under Lisa’s quiet leadership we have flourished.' — Sonia Berry, Executive Officer, IGSA

Lisa’s nomination is a celebration of the work happening across our School community – students, staff, families and alumnae – guided by a clear, values-led vision for girls’ education. We congratulate Lisa on this well-deserved recognition and look forward to sharing the Awards outcome.

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