For Lisa Cecil, education has always been more than a career.
As a neurodivergent learner from a multi-ethnic background, Lisa found early comfort in the structure and stimulation of study. “School and learning was my main escape,” she shared. “Studying helps me stay focused and keeps my thoughts clear.”
Now a mental health educator at TAFE Gippsland, Lisa recently joined 250 fellow graduates in celebrating another milestone in her learning journey—the completion of her Diploma of Leadership and Management.
“My favourite day of the year is graduation,” Lisa said. “Seeing the students celebrate their achievements —it’s a privilege to be part of that journey.”
Lisa's official 2025 TAFE Gippsland Graduation portrait.
Originally from Yallourn and raised in Melbourne, Lisa has called Gippsland home for many years. Her passion for education shaped a diverse career in the community and mental health sector. With qualifications including a degree and postgraduate diploma in psychology, a master’s in adult vocational education, and a Master of Neuroscience and Mental Health, she’s worked in crisis accommodation, adolescent support, family violence response and mental health clinical care.
Since joining the TAFE Gippsland team in 2019, Lisa has made a lasting impact as an educator in the Certificate IV and Diploma of Mental Health programs. “I love working alongside passionate students who are driven to make a difference,” she said. “It’s incredibly rewarding to help them build confidence and skills that create real impact in their communities.”
Undertaking the Diploma of Leadership and Management to further develop her leadership capabilities and better support her students and team, Lisa said a highlight of the course was the ability to apply learnings in real time and tailor them to neurodivergent-affirming practice.
“I was especially interested in how strategic planning, communication, and change management could improve course delivery and student outcomes,” Lisa said.
“It helped me reflect on my leadership style and gave me tools to lead with more clarity and confidence. Learning alongside others in the cohort was also invaluable—we gained so much from sharing experiences.”
Juggling full-time work, study and life wasn’t easy, but Lisa credits the flexibility of the course and the support of her program manager and facilitators for making it achievable.
Her advice to others considering the course? “Absolutely do it. It’s practical, relevant and empowering. Whether you're in a leadership role or working towards one, it builds the foundation to lead others—and yourself—with purpose.”
Lisa (centre) receiving her certfiicate on stage at the 2025 TAFE Gippsland Graduation Ceremony, flanked by CEO Laura Macpherson (left) and teacher Jan-Maree Constantine (right).