With great sorrow and profound sadness, we mourn the loss of Lisa Pender, a beloved digital wellness expert, dedicated professor at Mohawk College, and compassionate advocate for the health and well-being of others in the rapidly evolving world of technology. Lisa passed away far too soon, leaving behind a legacy of education, care, and unwavering commitment to creating a healthier digital environment for individuals, families, and communities. At just 47 years old, her passing has left a deep void in the lives of everyone who had the privilege to know her, both personally and professionally.
Lisa was not only a scholar and expert in her field, but a passionate mentor and tireless advocate for better digital practices and mindful technology usage. Her work centered around the balance between technology and well-being—a balance that, in today’s world, is often difficult to find. Through her teachings, writings, and public outreach, Lisa worked tirelessly to help individuals understand how they could use digital tools without sacrificing their mental health or personal relationships. As a faculty member at Mohawk College, Lisa’s role was far more than that of a professor; she was a guiding force, a beacon of knowledge and support for students, colleagues, and everyone who crossed her path.
We are all in deep mourning at the loss of such a dedicated, loving, and forward-thinking individual. Lisa’s sudden departure has left those who knew her grappling with grief, but also reflecting on the immeasurable impact she had on all aspects of our lives. We extend our deepest condolences to Lisa’s family, friends, students, and colleagues during this incredibly difficult time.
A Life of Service and Dedication to Digital Wellness
Lisa Pender was ahead of her time in many ways. Her expertise in digital wellness came at a time when the global community was only beginning to understand the profound impact that technology—while beneficial—could have on mental health, emotional well-being, and human relationships. In an age where social media, constant connectivity, and digital distractions are commonplace, Lisa became a voice of reason, advocating for healthy boundaries and mindful engagement with technology.
Her work in digital wellness was pioneering. With an approach rooted in both research and personal experience, Lisa encouraged individuals to become more aware of the time they spent online, promoting healthier online behaviors and strategies to mitigate the negative effects of overuse. Whether it was through mindfulness practices, self-care strategies, or simply encouraging breaks from screens, Lisa believed that individuals could reclaim their sense of balance and self-control in a world dominated by constant digital stimulation.
At Mohawk College, Lisa imparted her knowledge on her students with passion and dedication. She sought not only to educate but to inspire. Her lectures were engaging and thought-provoking, creating a space where students felt comfortable to explore their own relationship with technology and how it shaped their lives. Lisa’s approach to teaching was rooted in empathy; she understood that the digital world could be overwhelming for many, and she strived to provide her students with the tools to navigate it with clarity and confidence.
Her expertise extended beyond the classroom, as she often conducted workshops and public talks about the importance of digital health. Lisa’s goal was to ensure that technology was used in a way that benefited individuals’ lives rather than taking away from their well-being. She was a tireless advocate for creating boundaries and taking time to reconnect with oneself, one’s community, and the natural world, encouraging people to disconnect to reconnect.
A Loving Teacher, Mentor, and Friend
Lisa was a mentor to many, and her kindness and support were felt by all who interacted with her. She believed deeply in the potential of others and often went out of her way to provide guidance and encouragement. Many of her students found in Lisa not only a teacher but a trusted advisor—someone who was always willing to listen, offer advice, and provide a safe space for them to learn and grow.
Her ability to inspire was unmatched. She had an innate gift for connecting with others, making each person feel valued and understood. Lisa had a way of making difficult topics seem accessible, and her approachable nature made her the kind of educator that students could turn to for more than just academic concerns. She was someone who genuinely cared about the well-being of her students, making it her mission to help them achieve not only academic success but emotional and mental growth as well.
To her colleagues, Lisa was a source of wisdom and support. Her collaborative spirit and willingness to share knowledge made her a cherished member of the faculty at Mohawk College. Lisa was always ready to offer help, whether it was assisting with academic projects or simply being a sounding board for new ideas. Her presence in the department will be sorely missed, but the lessons she imparted on collaboration, dedication, and the importance of compassion will continue to influence her colleagues and the institution she so deeply loved.
Lisa’s impact was also felt far beyond the classroom. As an advocate for digital wellness, she regularly spoke at community events, wrote articles on mental health in the digital age, and worked with organizations to develop strategies for healthier online engagement. She believed that the balance between technology and personal well-being was not just an individual pursuit but a collective one. She worked tirelessly to build awareness and understanding around the subject, knowing that education was key to fostering positive change in a world where technology often overshadows our emotional and mental health.
A Legacy of Love, Empathy, and Hope
Lisa Pender’s legacy is one of love, empathy, and hope. In a world that can sometimes feel disconnected and overwhelming, Lisa’s work reminded us of the importance of mindfulness, self-care, and human connection. Her voice will forever resonate with those who heard her speak about the need for balance in our digital lives. She taught us that it is okay to step away from our screens, to take time to connect with ourselves and those around us, and to always prioritize our mental and emotional health over the pressures of an always-connected world.
Lisa’s family, friends, colleagues, and students will forever carry her memory in their hearts. Her legacy will live on through the lives she touched, the lessons she shared, and the values she instilled in those fortunate enough to know her. We are deeply grateful for the time we had with Lisa and will continue to honor her memory by upholding the principles she cherished.
To Lisa’s family, we extend our deepest condolences. We cannot begin to imagine the pain you are feeling, but please know that Lisa’s work and her spirit will forever be remembered with love and admiration. She made a difference in so many lives, and her legacy will continue to inspire us all as we carry her lessons forward.
Rest in peace, Lisa. Your light, compassion, and vision for a healthier digital world will continue to guide us, even as we face the sadness of your loss. You have left a lasting imprint on our hearts, and your legacy will continue to inspire and uplift us all for many years to come.
