Lisa Williams Schary

Lisa Williams Schary is a dedicated environmental advocate with a love for nature and a passion for both preserving and photographing it.

Ms. Schary earned a Bachelor’s degree from Hofstra University, a Master’s from Adelphi University, and spent her career as an educator. After retiring, Ms. Schary began devoting her time and energy to protecting and preserving Long Island’s remaining open spaces so that they can be enjoyed for generations to come.

Ms. Schary, along with her husband Richard, founded the Friends of the Massapequa Preserve, a non-profi t organization that protects, cares for, and conserves the preserve’s 423 acres of undeveloped woods, ponds, lakes, and fresh water wetlands that is home to hundreds of plant and animal species. Since the organization’s inception, Ms. Schary has worked tirelessly to raise awareness and educate residents about this natural treasure in their own community by sponsoring educational programs and producing a video documentary that has been used in local schools and libraries.

Ms. Schary is a founding and current board member of the Friends of Norman Levy Preserve and the Friends of Tackapausha Preserve. She sits on the boards of many other environmental organizations, including the Long Island Greenbelt Trail Conference and the New York State Department of Transportation’s Scenic Bikeways Committee.

An avid hiker, Ms. Schary has led scores of educational nature hikes across Long Island and was a dynamic force behind the creation of the Wantagh Nature Trail and Trailview State Park. She has also supervised over 30 Eagle Scout community projects dealing with environmental preservation.Her dedication, passion and concern for the environment and future generations is an inspiration to us all.

Ms. Schary and her husband Richard reside in North Bellmore. She is the proud step-mother of Brad and Jennifer and step-grandmother of Jared and Rebecca Schary.