Lisa Kurstin is a trained botanist and science educator with twenty years of experience working in California independent schools as a classroom teacher, department chair, and senior-level administrator. She has taught subjects in both the sciences and humanities to students of all ages, from kindergarten through high school. Additionally, she has created testing materials that have been used internationally, served as an education programs manager at a Southern California botanic garden, and received the 2013 National Hull Award for Excellence in Education by the Garden Clubs of America.