School Founder's Address: Honoring the Past, Shaping the Future

Ms. Lisa Liang, our school’s founding CEO, is here to take a walk down memory lane as DAIS celebrates 20 amazing years. In this heartfelt anniversary message, she shares stories about the people who made the school feel like family, the joy of seeing students succeed, and her hopes for what’s next.

Hi, my name is Lisa Liang, and I used to be the CEO of the school.

Many people helped start the school with me, and I was fortunate to have so many wonderful teachers, administrators, students, and parents supporting us. That’s what made the school such a special place. I’m so happy to be back on campus after 20 years, especially during the 20th anniversary celebration.

^{DAIS Campus Village event years ago}

What I value most isn’t just meeting all the kids, parents, and teachers. It was the relationships we built. That’s what makes this experience so meaningful. I know where many of our students went after graduation, and seeing their success is always so gratifying. They often tell me how much they valued their education here and how much they miss the family feel of the school. Some even laugh about how they once complained about the meals. Now they say they miss the food! That’s really special.

What I miss most about the school are the people and the chance to make a difference. When I retired, that opportunity changed. I miss being able to offer a smile, an encouraging word, and help kids in ways that mattered.

^{Ms. Lisa Liang (left) with colleagues and friends years ago}

Looking ahead, I hope the school continues its mission and vision. I want it to stay student-centered and help students find the career paths they dream of, while also becoming good people. I hope they come back and tell us we’ve continued to make a difference. That’s what I want to see in the next 20 years.

Happy anniversary, DAIS! I hope you have another wonderful 20 years and continue the same success as the first.