Identity-Conscious Decision Making

Dr. Liza Talusan is an educator, speaker, leader, writer, leadership coach and parent. With over 25 years of experience in PreK-20 education, Liza is an engaging facilitator in conversations about teaching, leading, learning, and leadership and creates environments that allow for people to discuss difficult topics openly. Through her direct work with organizational leaders, staff, students, teachers, and communities, Liza empowers individuals to create a more inclusive organization, environment, community and team.

Liza earned her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Connecticut College, a Master's Degree in Student Personnel Administration from New York University; a certificate in Human Resources; a PhD in Higher Education from the University of Massachusetts Boston; and her certified coaching credentials from the Institute for Professional Excellence in Coaching. Her scholarship has been published in peer reviewed journals, edited book collections, online platforms, and she has been featured on a number of podcasts and interviews related to education, identity, and inclusion. She serves in a number of national organizations focused on education and equity, and she has consulted with over 400 schools, organizations, and corporations across the United States, Europe, Asia, and South America.

Currently, Dr. Talusan is a faculty member and graduate program director at the University of Massachusetts Boston where she teaches in both the Masters and Doctoral Programs in Education. Liza’s book, “The Identity Conscious Educator: Building habits and skills for more inclusive schools” published by Solution Tree Press, is the 2023 Gold Medal Recipient of IPPY Awards. Her second book “Identity-Conscious Practice in Action” was released in November 2024. Liza has a new book coming out in Fall 2026 titled, “Identity-Conscious Teaching, Learning, and Curriculum: Strategies for Belonging.”