Supporting children’s emotional well-being in the face of adversity is essential, especially during times of upheaval, loss and uncertainty. This session offers guidance for families and their gifted children on navigating difficult emotions, processing challenging news, and fostering resilience. By creating a sense of stability, encouraging open conversations, and embracing  different perspectives, families can help their children develop the emotional tools they need to move forward with strength and understanding. Refreshments and childcare will be provided.

Panel: Elizabeth D. Jones (IEA President Emeritus, Co-Founder, and Senior Advisor), and Annalise Kordell, LCSW (Mental Health Division Co-Director, the Center for Connection)

Wednesday, April 16, 2025
4:00 PST
569 S Marengo Ave. Pasadena, CA 91101

RSVP at bit.ly/iea-gsg-apr16

About the panelists:

Elizabeth D. Jones is the President Emeritus & Co-Founder, Senior Advisor at the Institute for Educational Advancement. Ms. Jones has been an educator, researcher, and administrator of educational programs for over 45 years. She served as the Associate Director of Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth (CTY) and the Director of the Western Region for 10 years prior to founding the Institute for Educational Advancement. she went on to lead in the creation and implementation of the award-winning Yunasa summer camp for the gifted and the Caroline D. Bradley Scholarship program. Ms. Jones currently serves on the Advisory Board for GRO Gifted, the Advisory Board for Young and Healthy, and the Board of Directors for Math Academy.

Annalise Kordell, LCSW, is the Mental Health Division co-Director at the Center for Connection and a licensed child and adolescent psychotherapist and social worker. She earned her undergraduate degree from Pennsylvania State University and her Master of Arts in Social Work from the University of Chicago.

Understanding and addressing perfectionism and motivation in gifted youth. Refreshments and childcare will be provided.

Presenter: Judy Wiener, LCSW, LMFT

Wednesday, July 9, 2025
4:00 PST
569 S Marengo Ave. Pasadena, CA 91101

This session will offer expert advice on navigating LA’s competitive high school admissions landscape to help you choose the best fit for your child. Refreshments and childcare will be provided.

Panelists: Deborah Monroe (IEA President), Mallory Aldrich (IEA Senior Manager), and Stephen Milich (Consultant)

Wednesday, September 10, 2025
4:00 PST
569 S Marengo Ave, Pasadena, CA

RSVP at bit.ly/iea-gsg-sep10

About the Panelists:

Deborah K. Monroe brings over three decades of experience in K-12 education to her role as President of the Institute for Educational Advancement. With a distinguished career in both Los Angeles and international schools, Deborah has consistently championed innovative college preparatory programs and comprehensive socio-emotional curricula within premier PK-12 institutions.

Mallory Aldrich is the Senior Manager, Caroline D.Bradley Scholarship Program at the Insitute for Educational Advancement. Mallory graduated from the University of Arizona with a B.A. in Secondary Social Studies Education. She then pursued a MEd. in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis in Gifted Education at Arizona State University. Prior to joining IEA she worked an Advanced Placement High School Social Studies teacher for nearly nine years in Arizona.

Stephen Milich is an experienced educational consultant with over 25 years in independent school admissions. Based in Los Angeles over 15 years, Stephen has served as an Admissions Officer at Occidental College, Director of Admissions and Financial Aid at The Buckley School, and Director of Admissions at Carlthorp School. He works with families at all levels, striving to provide extraordinary service, support, and expertise to successfully navigate the preschool, independent school, and college admission processes. His extensive background in K–6, K–12, and college settings equips him to offer invaluable guidance to families throughout their educational journey.

Seven practical strategies for tackling perfectionism in gifted kids.

Presenter: Lisa Van Gemert

Wednesday, October 8, 2025
4:00 PST / 7:00 EST
Virtual

RSVP at bit.ly/iea-gsg-oct8

About the Presenter:
Lisa Van Gemert is an expert in neuropsychology, pedagogy, and education, known for combining humor, technology, and fun in her work. A former teacher, school administrator, and Youth & Education Ambassador for Mensa, Lisa is also an expert consultant for TV shows like Lifetime’s Child Genius and the author of four books, including the Legacy Award-winning Perfectionism: A Practical Guide to Managing Never Good Enough. She shares resources for educators and parents through GiftedGuru.com and VocabularyLuau.com. Lisa holds a degree in English and an M.Ed.T. from the University of Texas at Arlington.