Lisa Gillespie, 37, of Fayetteville, is the principal of Mary McArthur Elementary School.
She was nominated for 40 Under 40 because she "has created a successful school environment. Since becoming the principal of Mary McArthur Elementary she has helped the school to get out of 'low performing' status," nominator Shirley Braxton-McLaurin writes. "She successfully led the school through the pandemic by supporting and leading teachers through online teaching. ... She makes herself available to families and builds relationships with them. She is wise beyond her years, as I have seen her assist families with finding the resources they need as well as helping them to solve family issues or at least give an objective and honest view of the situation. She is an advocate for students with special needs and inclusion. She embraces the population, as she does all students, however, special needs kids hold a special place in her heart. Lisa Gillespie fosters growth in all she meets. She eagerly encourages her staff to seek higher education as well as challenge themselves with new roles. She is soft spoken yet commands respect in every room she enters. She doesn't say much but when she speaks she has important things to say. In the short number of years she has been in education, she has made a big impact."
Here's what else you should know about this member of The Fayetteville Observer's 40 Under 40 Class of 2024.
Who are your immediate family members?
My husband, Darius; and our two daughters, Ivery, 5, and Maci, 1.
What does your job entail?
As the principal of Mary McArthur Elementary, I facilitate an educational environment focused on successful teaching and learning.
Where did you receive your education?
Fayetteville State University: Master of School Administration and Bachelor of Science in elementary education
What community and professional groups are you affiliated with?
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc.; North Carolina Association of Educators; and Cumberland County Association of Principals and Assistant Principals
How do you volunteer your time in the community?
I volunteer my time in the field of education serving as a mentor and advocate.
What is one thing you wish people knew or understood better about your profession?
I wish people knew and understood that principals must balance taking care of people and completing tasks. It is essential to support and consider the needs of students, staff and the wider school community while managing administrative duties. Balancing these responsibilities requires a great deal of "head work" and "heart work," but achieving this balance is key to the overall well-being and success of the school.
What's the best advice you've ever received and/or the worst advice you've ever followed?
The best advice I have ever received is, "Make decisions with your heart and use your head to see them through."
What goal have you already achieved, and how did you make it happen?
I achieved the goal of leading Mary McArthur Elementary School out of state-designated low-performing status in 2022. This was accomplished by developing an intentional vision for success, collaborating with our staff to implement a strategic plan for school improvement and working as a team to ensure that all students were provided an equitable, personal and meaningful learning experience.
If you weren't in your current profession, what would you be?
If I weren't a principal, I would be a news anchor.
What are five things (not people or pets) you can't live without?
Five things I can not live without are sweet tea, iPhone, learning, naps and love.
What's something you do outside of work to enrich yourself?
Outside of work, I love spending time with my girls. They are so much to be around and they keep me young and energized.
What's a song that always makes you happy or that motivates you?
"Look at God" by Koryn Hawthorne
Some responses may have been edited for style and grammar.
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