Consultant Bios
Michael Brennan
Mr. Mike grew up in Weymouth, MA and attended Boston College High School. He has a BA in English from the College of the Holy Cross, and a Master’s Degree in Education from Boston College. His teaching career began in 1990 at Fairfield Prep, where he spent thirteen years as a classroom teacher. Mr. Michael taught English at Xaverian Brothers High School, Portsmouth Abbey School, and Boston College High School, where he has also served as an administrator. Mike spent eight years as the Admissions Director at BC High, leading the school to full enrollment during the creation and launch of the Arrupe Division, BC High’s middle school program. He also served as the Vice-Principal for Student Affairs at BC High for five years, before moving to Cristo Rey Boston High School to serve as its president. Mike played hockey and baseball in high school and college, and he has a diverse coaching background, both at the high school and college levels. His experience in teaching and admissions in the private school world brings an enormous advantage to BPSS families. Mike has many colleagues in senior-level positions at some of the most elite private schools in the area, and his knowledge of the private school world in Boston is extensive.
Liza Iolli
Ms. Liza is an accomplished educator and mentor. With over 30 years of expertise in the private school sector, she knows what schools seek in a successful student, who embodies both integrity and sincerity. Her main educational focus is empowering and supporting students. Under her tutelage and mentoring, countless students have been accepted to top tier schools. Most recently, she served as the Interim Dean of Students at Ursuline Academy, where she was recognized for her vision, and ability to connect with, and inspire students. She has worked on Admissions Committees at private schools, and she knows the ins and outs of the student admissions evaluation process. She is happiest spending time in Italy, with family and friends, or rereading Jane Austen. Ms. Liza is currently enrolled in the M.Ed. Program, Research, at Emmanuel College. In addition to receiving her BA in both Italian and Spanish from Emmanuel College, she earned Graduate Credits in Education from Bridgewater State University, a Certificato de Idioma Español from the Universidad de Valencia, España and a Certificato di Profitto: Lingua e Letteratura Italiana from the Università Di Firenze, Centro Per Stranieri, Firenze, Italia.
Gillian Lloyd
Ms. Gillian grew up in Massachusetts, graduating with a BA from Middlebury College and an EdM from Harvard University. In addition, she studied at the University of Bath in England. Her professional experience includes over 12 years in college admissions and several years as a partner in the marketing consulting firm, MM&L Consulting. During her consulting years, Gillian managed market research projects, developed strategic marketing plans for colleges and non-profit organizations and initiated and developed marketing communication plans. For the past 25 years, Gillian has been the Director of Admission and Financial Aid at two selective independent schools in the ISL—The Governor’s Academy for 3 years and The Rivers School for 22 years. During her many years in the ISL, Gillian loved not only her work in admissions, but also the opportunity to serve as a faculty advisor. Gillian lives in Boston, is married and has two adult children, one also living in Boston and one in Atlanta, GA. In addition to relishing her time with family and friends, Gillian enjoys hiking, traveling, and gardening.