Lisa Gonsalves
Lisa Gonsalves is a seasoned education and nonprofit leader with extensive experience in driving academic excellence, organizational growth, and community engagement. She currently serves as Executive Director of Independence Academy Charter School, overseeing financial management, compliance, and academic reporting. Under her leadership, the school has maintained an exceptionally low turnover rate among both teachers and students, earning a reputation as a highly sought-after institution where many educators aspire to teach. Lisa is also a proven fundraiser, securing significant capital funding, expanding revenue streams, and ensuring long-term financial sustainability.
A strategic visionary, Lisa holds dual master’s degrees in Educational Leadership and Dramatic Literature, as well as a bachelor’s degree in English and Computer Education. She possesses professional and teaching licenses in English and Theatre Arts and has completed advanced leadership training through Harvard University. She serves on the board and member council of the Colorado League of Charter Schools, providing governance expertise and contributing to statewide educational policy initiatives. Additionally, Lisa directs nonprofit arts programming with The Theatre Project, curating culturally diverse productions and innovative audience engagement strategies that have significantly increased community participation. She has also been recognized as a finalist for Administrator of the Year.
Throughout her career, Lisa has been inspired and guided by mentors who shaped her leadership philosophy, most notably Sherry Price. She is known for her ability to build strong community partnerships, cultivate donor relationships, and foster a collaborative, mission-driven culture that elevates both students and staff. Her combined expertise in education, performing arts, and organizational leadership allows her to create meaningful impact while preparing the next generation of learners and leaders for success.
• Concordia University - M.Ed
• Regis University - MA
• University of Idaho - MFA
• Regis University - BA
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a deep-seated drive to give back to my community. This commitment has fueled my dedication, perseverance, and focus throughout my career, guiding me to seek opportunities where I can make a meaningful impact while continuously striving for excellence. By aligning my professional goals with a purpose beyond personal achievement, I have been able to create work that not only advances my own growth but also contributes positively to the lives of others.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is that if someone isn’t mad at you, you’re not doing your job. This taught me that meaningful work often challenges the status quo, pushes boundaries, and requires making tough decisions. Embracing this mindset has helped me approach my career with courage, accountability, and a focus on creating real impact even when it means facing difficult conversations.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to be comfortable with the fact that not everyone will agree with you or be happy with your decisions. Standing your ground, making tough calls, and advocating for what’s right may sometimes upset others, but it’s a necessary part of growth and leadership. Embracing this reality with confidence allows you to build resilience, assert your expertise, and make a meaningful impact in your field.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field right now is the shortage of resources. Limited funding, staffing, and access to tools can make it difficult to deliver services at the level of quality and efficiency that clients or communities need. However, this challenge also presents an opportunity to innovate finding creative solutions, optimizing existing resources, and advocating for increased support to strengthen the field and expand its impact.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are collaboration and giving back. I believe that working together fosters stronger outcomes, encourages diverse perspectives, and builds lasting relationships. At the same time, giving back whether to my community, colleagues, or those I serve ensures that my efforts have a meaningful, positive impact beyond personal achievement. These values guide the way I approach challenges, make decisions, and contribute to the world around me.