Ian started ISA with a notebook computer, cell phone, and a dream of using his skills to transform the education landscape.
Ian Symmonds
ISA Founder, Chief Strategist
Ian Symmonds is a strategist, author, speaker, and education activist. After 15 years in senior leadership roles at private schools, colleges, and universities—driving enrollment growth and institutional turnarounds—he founded Ian Symmonds & Associates (ISA) in 2003. Over the past two decades, Ian has advised more than 1600 clients, flown over four million air miles, and gained a perspective on schools, colleges, universities, and nonprofits that few consultants globally can match.
Ian’s leadership career spans Pacific University, Culver-Stockton College, Saint Mary’s Hall, and Trinity University, where he served as a senior officer, executive director, and dean. A true global citizen, he has lived in major cultural centers such as Boston, San Antonio, Portland, Chicago, and San Diego and has worked with institutions across Europe, Mexico, Puerto Rico, South America, Canada, the Middle East, and Asia. His expertise in educational strategy has led to transformative change for countless organizations.
A recognized global thought leader in education, Ian is known for his culturally relevant, forward-thinking approach that balances innovation with enduring impact. He frequently speaks and writes on the intersection of education, community-building, and social change. In 2011, he launched #JustCause, a campaign that connects ISA with organizations tackling structural poverty through education. Through speaking engagements, writing, and pro bono consulting, Ian remains deeply committed to this mission.
Ian is a widely published author in professional journals and a sought-after keynote speaker at regional, national, and international conferences. His expertise spans beyond education to focus on strategic growth for leadership organizations, sports education/entrepreneurship, and the ed-tech sector. His life journey has been shaped by the mentors, leaders, and coaches who invested in him, and he now dedicates his time to helping organizations do the same for others.
Ian is drawn to the open road and racket sports. A former competitive tennis professional, he spends his free time playing and teaching, hiking, or riding his motorcycle through the desert. His passion for culture and exploration fuels his work and personal pursuits alike.
Ian lives and offices in Southern California with his wife and lifelong partner, Lisa. Their daughters, Makayla (Nashville) and Jules (Bay Area), both graduates of Loyola Marymount University, work in the creative industry, with Jules also serving at ISA.
- All of Ian's scheduling requests are handled by Jules.
- Download the ISA Media Kit here
- Download Ian's Rider here
- Download Ian's Philosophy here
