ISB FOUNDATION - Key Persons
Job Titles:
- Ex - Officio / Non - Voting Board Member
- New Director at the International School of Brussels
James MacDonald is the new Director at the International School of Brussels (ISB) in Belgium since July 2020. An international educator for more than 20 years, James brings a deep sense of responsibility for fostering diverse and inclusive school communities. He has worked at international schools in Asia and served as senior vice president of education for schools in Dubai. Most recently, James served as managing director of the Al Futtaim Education Foundation. He holds four university degrees, is a published author and has served on various governing bodies such as EARCOS (East Asia Association of Overseas Schools), and the IB Regional Council in Asia Pacific, which he chaired for four years.
Jeff attended ISB from 1978, experiencing Middle & High School and graduating in 1984.
After ISB, Jeff attended Lehigh University receiving a degree in International Economics. He has been in Finance ever since and currently works as a Private Wealth Advisor for a major bank in the Washington DC area. Serving on the ISB Foundation Board allows him to remain connected to so many people associated with a vibrant city, a cultural phenomenon, and of course an excellent education - all of which are critical to the way he sees life and the world today. "We're unique and fortunate in the United States to have a broad definition of 'alumni' so I encourage everyone touched by the ISB experience to continue to remain involved, engaged and proud of the Raiders adventure we all share".
As a former parent from 1994-1998, Jay has been serving on the ISB Foundation Board for the past 14 years. Now retired, he worked for Johnson & Johnson for 47 years, 5 of those in Brussels.
Aside from his role as Board Secretary, Jay is the sponsor of the Matthew and John Norton Scholarships in recognition of his two sons. His dedication and loyalty to ISB is unwavering. He also sponsors 3 additional educational scholarships in the USA.
As a parent at ISB from 2007-2010, Karen has served on a number of school boards and still serves as Ambassador for the Princeton Alumni Schools Committee and as Trustee of Awty International School Alumni Parent Association Board. Her career experience included working as a Global Process Manager with Exxon Mobil. Whilst at ISB, she served as a Trustee for the ISB Board (2008-2010) and Brussels Sports Association (BSA) Board (2009-2010). She says, "My hope is that our work on the ISB Foundation will enable and strengthen the link between ISB and former students and their families living in the US. Together we can support ISB's unique culture so that it continues to thrive for future generations and remains a part of our lives. 'Everyone included, Everyone challenged, Everyone successful', says it all".
As a former ISB High School English teacher from 1977-1992 as well as an alumni parent of four children, 3 of whom graduated from ISB, Lori is a long time teacher in both high school and university levels. She also holds a seat on the University of Colorado Art Museum Advisory Board, as well as serves as a Board member for the Minerva Project. Lori is a passionate supporter of ISB and is on the ISB Foundation Board because "ISB has been such a huge part of my life and the life of my family."
Ms. Smith was born in Canada and grew up in the metropolitan Toronto area, moving to Brussels in 1977 when she was 11 years old. She attended ISB from 7th grade through graduation, serving as a cheerleader for both Raider football and basketball and as captain of the cheerleading team her senior year. Other activities included Drama, with several school performances. Her parents were active in the ISB community as well; her father grilled burgers at the football games and her mother worked at the Tea House, was on the PTA, and helped the Canada booth at International Festivals.
Job Titles:
- Ex - Officio / Non - Voting Board Member
- Member of the ISB Foundation Board
Class of 1990. After many years as a full member of the ISB Foundation Board, Tom now holds an ex-officio role.
As a former student from 1973-1977 (Class of 1979), Whitney has been serving on the ISB Foundation Board as a volunteer for a number of years alongside her occupation of editing research papers. Of her passion and connection to ISB she says, "I firmly believe that the education before college is the most important and influential one we receive and serving on the Foundation Board is one way I can give back to the school that taught me so much. ISB is special and I want to help it continue to grow and evolve with new teaching methods, technology, and a global student body."