CSW Head of School Lise Charlier Named President of AISNE Board

The Association of Independent Schools in New England (AISNE) announced this summer that CSW Head of School Lise Charlier has been appointed as their new board president.

“I am honored to take on this role at such a pivotal time for AISNE, and for independent schools across New England," Lise shares. "Together, we will continue to innovate, support our educators, and empower our students to thrive in a rapidly changing world."

AISNE started in 1904 as the Private School Association of Boston. In its 120 year history, it has grown to serve more than 270 member schools across all New England states. Today the association accredits schools (including CSW!), hosts professional learning events for educators and school leaders, and serves as a hub for education professionals to share knowledge and resources, strengthening the local education industry.

AISNE’s Board ensures that the association remains committed to its mission of shaping the educational landscape for independent schools through leadership, education, service, and strategic advocacy with a commitment to equity and inclusion.

AISNE’s Board of Directors is composed of leaders in the region's independent schools, including Heads of School, CFOs, and consultants. As president of AISNE’s board, Lise partners with and supports AISNE’s Executive Director, Sara Wilson, and is helping to lead the creation of a strategic framework for the organization to ensure that AISNE continues to thrive and support New England's independent schools.

“It is a pleasure to work alongside Lise as our Board envisions the future of AISNE. She brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing independent schools that are an asset to every school in our membership,” says Sara Wilson, AISNE’s Executive Director.

Prior to being named President of the AISNE Board of Directors, Lise served as the association's Vice President.

Before beginning her tenure at CSW, Lise served as director of studies and strategic initiatives at Severn School in Severna Park, Maryland. Before this role at Severn, Lise was upper school assistant principal at Friends School of Baltimore in Baltimore, Maryland. Lise has also served on the board of trustees for Green Street Academy, the Association of Independent Maryland and DC Schools (AIMS), the Cowles Charitable Trust, and most recently the Center for Spiritual and Ethical Education (CSEE). She holds an MS in education from Johns Hopkins University and a BS from Georgetown University.

Lise joined the CSW community in 2019 and has since led the school through a global pandemic; stewarded the introduction of the co-curricular program known as PACE: Promoting Awareness and Community Engagement; guided the transition to a new and improved iteration of the Module System (the school’s unique academic model); expanded off-campus learning opportunities, both locally and abroad; and spearheaded critical diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, including the establishment of a Racial Equity Task Force. During her tenure, CSW’s campus has benefitted from a number of vital upgrades and expansions, including the renovation of the Kluchman Lobby, Library, Health Center, College Counseling Suite, and Dining Hall, in addition to numerous classrooms and dormitories.

“As Head of School at CSW, Lise has consistently led with empathy, patience, intellect, and a passion for progressive learning,” says CSW Board Chair Ann Gorson P’16. “This has enabled all facets of our program — academics, athletics, and the arts — to flourish, making CSW a highly compelling option for families in Greater Boston and around the world. It is exciting to see her accomplishments recognized by AISNE in this way.”