FOUNDER

Dr. Lisa Cyzner founded Cyzner Institute in 2003 after identifying a need for a resource center to support exceptional children and their families in the greater Charlotte area. She believes that early intervention combined with individualized therapeutic support helps lay the foundation for future success for many children.

Dr. Cyzner received her Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from Columbia University in 1993, where she was recognized for academic scholarship and leadership through several honors, including the Veteran’s Administration Health Professional Scholarship, the National AMBUCS Award, and the Columbia University Incentive Award. In 2009, she was also awarded the Maxwell J. Schleifer Distinguished Service Award from Exceptional Parent Magazine.

She completed the requirements for her Ph.D. through the Department of Occupational Therapy at New York University in 2000. Her research has focused on occupational therapy interventions for children with self-regulation challenges, as well as broader topics related to child and family policy and services for children with developmental and behavioral needs. From 1996–1999, she also served as an instructor and guest lecturer for entry-level occupational therapy students at New York University.

DIRECTOR OF CYZNER INSTITUTE

Kerri LaMontagne was named Director of Cyzner Institute in March 2024 following the retirement of founder and director Dr. Lisa Cyzner. As Dr. Cyzner noted, “Kerri has the education, experience, ethics, and fortitude for this role.”

Kerri began her work with the Cyzner Institute in 2005, and has worked with children with various disabilities since 1994. She graduated from The George Washington University with a Master of Science in Infant Special Education and began her career working in Arlington, Virginia, public schools as a preschool coordinator. This experience reinforced her belief that early intervention is critical to the development of a special needs child.

Kerri also holds a Master’s Certificate in Behavioral Intervention in Autism through the University of Massachusetts and is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS OF CYZNER INSTITUTE

Tracey Luna is the Director of Operations of Cyzner Institute and serves as the primary contact and coordinator for all of our families and the staff of Cyzner. Tracey is responsible for office administration, communications, insurance processing and invoicing, and other daily operations at Cyzner Institute.

Tracey joined Cyzner Institute in 2006, bringing more than 17 years of experience in Human Resources and financial management. She graduated from Moravian College in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, with a Bachelor of Arts. Tracey previously worked in healthcare, where she gained a breadth of knowledge in healthcare benefits and insurance programs. At Cyzner, Tracey works to help parents access the support and services they need for their children.