Meet the New AD at Scottsdale Prep, Teray Allen-Lisbon

Teray Allen-Lisbon, M.Ed., has been named the new athletic director at Scottsdale Prep. While this is a new position for him, he is not a new face for the athletic department. Allen-Lisbon has already made a lasting impact over his seven years at Great Hearts, serving as Assistant Athletic Director, P.E. teacher, and head coach of the girls’ basketball program.

Born in Maryland, Allen-Lisbon spent some of his early years in Connecticut and later moved to Texas during high school. He earned his bachelor’s degree in sociology from Philander Smith College in Arkansas and went on to complete a master’s degree in higher education from Arizona State University. Before joining Great Hearts, he worked in the admissions department at ASU while also working in retail, specializing in high-end appliances.

Allen-Lisbon said he comes from an academic family. His mother has held positions at prestigious institutions such as Yale, Mount Holyoke, and the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. “Growing up, I was always immersed in both athletics and academics,” he explained, “which gave me a deep appreciation for the balance and value of a strong educational foundation.”

That appreciation has only grown deeper during his time at Scottsdale Prep. “Like any journey, there have been highs and lows, but what continues to motivate me is watching students grow—academically, athletically, and personally,” he shared. “I’ve had the privilege of seeing students’ progress from 5th and 6th grade all the way through to graduation. It’s always bittersweet, but the heartfelt letters and messages I receive from current and former students confirm that I’m making a meaningful impact.”

As Athletic Director, he is excited to take Scottsdale Prep’s athletic programs to the next level. “I’m deeply invested in our community,” he said. “What excites me most is the opportunity to elevate our school’s athletic programs, much like I’ve done with the girls’ basketball program… I believe we have something truly special here, and I want to help it flourish.”

“For me, this role involves leading community outreach efforts, cultivating sponsorships, enhancing engagement with families and supporters, and most importantly, creating opportunities for student-athletes to reach the next level,” he explained.

Allen-Lisbon believes his leadership approach is rooted in the Great Hearts mission. “The virtues of Truth, Goodness, and Beauty strongly align with how I strive to live and lead,” he shared. “I try to find Truth, Goodness, and Beauty in everyone I encounter, and I believe that by staying genuine, I attract genuine people and relationships in return.

Outside of work, Allen-Lisbon enjoys playing basketball and soccer, exploring new technology, and spending quality time with his wife, Alexandria, and their two dogs, Bruno and Tyson. In fact, his passion for both family and athletics came together when he proposed to Alexandria after a basketball game, surprising her in front of friends, family, and the school community.

Scottsdale Prep is excited for the future under Allen-Lisbon’s leadership. His deep connection to the school, combined with his vision and energy, promises to further strengthen the culture of excellence within Spartan athletics. “I want to continue building on our tradition of excellence, both on and off the court or field.”

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