Lisa Paterson, among other things, is a 9/11 widow. She navigated the challenges of sole parenthood for her twins by prioritizing their well-being, assisting them in coping with their grief and trauma, all while ensuring meaningful experiences and a sense of joy. Contributing to the Family Advisory Board of Tuesday’s Children for nearly two decades, Lisa actively engaged in conversations about the needs of parents and children during the healing journey after traumatic loss.

With a background as a former school counselor and teacher in NYC, Lisa established Write This Way in 2011, a dynamic studio in NJ where she serves as the Director. She guides students through college application essays, also fostering creative writing for stage and screen (i.e., the award-winning student films, “A Colorful Romance” and “Shutterflies,” workshopped with Lisa).

Passionate about the stage, Lisa attended the Advanced Playwriting Classes at HB Studios for over three years and completed the Improv Program at the iconic The Second City in 2021.

Lisa earned her M.Ed and MA in Counseling Ps.ychology from Teacher’s College, Columbia University, and a BA in Theatre and Religion from Bard College. She holds a certificate in PFA (Psychological First Aid).