Exclusive Interviews
Meet our new Volunteer and Education Manager, Lisa Greenshields, MS. She will be helping to facilitate children’s education programs including field trips and Summer programs, volunteer programs, and other tasks involving visitor services. Read her interview below to learn more about her background and vision for her department!
I’m a SoCal girl. I married my childhood sweetheart and we have been together for 40 years and married for 33 years. I have 3 adult children, 2 boys and 1 girl, and we are all very close. My middle son is married and my daughter is getting married next year. I earned a bachelor of arts degree in Human Development from Cal State Long Beach and Master of Science degree in Mental Health and Wellness from Grand Canyon University. In my free time I love to sew doll clothes, go to Disneyland and travel.
During my studies in human development I learned that the arts are important for many reasons. Exposure to the arts from a young age can stimulate cognitive development. It enhances critical thinking skills, creativity, and problem-solving abilities, which are beneficial across various aspects of life. Access to the arts exposes individuals to diverse cultures, histories, and perspectives. It promotes understanding, empathy, and appreciation for different cultures and traditions, contributing to a more inclusive and interconnected society.
Accessible arts programming brings communities together and encourages social interaction. It creates opportunities for people of all ages to connect with one another, share experiences, and build relationships, fostering a sense of belonging and unity. Engaging with the arts has been shown to have numerous health benefits, including stress reduction, improved mood, and enhanced overall well-being. Making the arts accessible to all ages promotes holistic health and encourages healthy lifestyle choices.
Growing up I played the accordion. In fact, I learned to read music before I learned how to read! Music was a big part of my life all through school and into adulthood. I met my husband at the accordion studio when we were little kids. We both were in marching band in high school. Our children played instruments or danced, or both! I cannot imagine my life without music.
Well, first of all, I get to spend my days in this beautiful place! The staff and volunteers have been wonderful and welcoming. I look forward to getting to know everyone and finding out their passions. I believe that each person has a spark of something that excites them and when we put all those sparks together we will build a fire for our program that will not burn out. My goals are to build on our strengths and expand them to include younger volunteers from high schools and colleges. Intergenerational interactions benefit both younger and older participants. Younger individuals gain valuable insights and guidance from older mentors, while older adults experience a sense of purpose and fulfillment by sharing their knowledge and skills with younger generations.
I would have to say a favorite moment was meeting Lizzy from Lizzy and the Triggermen. I just love her and the band and try to see them every time they play at the Casa.
Ocean Terrace or Main Salon? Main Salon
Historic Tour or Garden Tour? Historic Tour
Flowers or succulents? Flowers
Casa Cool Summer music series or Casa Vibes music series? I love attending Casa Cool
Cinema under the stars or cozy in the main salon? Under the stars
