LEE MILLER - FOUNDER OF CALWEST
CalWest’s founder, Lee Miller, passed away in June 2016.
Lee was a tireless advocate for independent school teaching candidates. She made it a point to see the potential in people and was committed to schools that sought to be inclusive and welcoming. Lee was passionate about mentoring emerging leaders and supporting teachers. She was especially interested in expanding professional development experiences for teachers and exploring opportunities for school leaders – from entry level through senior leadership positions.
On June 28, 2016, the independent school community lost a passionate and tireless advocate when Lee Miller passed away after a courageous battle with cancer. Though she faced the disease for several years, Lee never allowed it to define her. Instead, she continued to live life on her own terms, embracing every moment with a zest for life that never wavered. Whether in her work, her travels, her family, or her friendships, Lee gave wholeheartedly to the world around her. Her legacy is one of unwavering service to others—a legacy she would have wanted to be remembered by.
In the summer of 2003, Lee co-founded CalWest Educators Placement with her husband, Steve. She identified and selected Fleisch from a pool of candidates to join CalWest for the role of interviewing and recruiting talent. As the company transitioned from a start-up to a respected leader in placement services, Fleisch’s responsibilities evolved in tandem with the company’s growth. Throughout this period, Lee played an instrumental role not only as a boss but also as a mentor, role model, and key figure who embodied her values. Her relentless work ethic and dedication to those values contributed significantly to CalWest’s success, and she consistently went above and beyond to support both candidates and school administrators.
Lee wore her heart on her sleeve, advocating fiercely for the candidates she believed in. She had an uncanny ability to see the potential in others and was unrelenting in her commitment to making connections that worked. She didn’t just fill positions; she created *matches*. Whether it was recommending someone for an interview or encouraging a campus visit, Lee was always looking for the opportunity to help someone shine. She applied a deep understanding of human dynamics and intuition to every match she made, always with an eye for schools that valued inclusivity and diversity. Lee attended the People of Color Conference (PoCC) for over 20 years and cherished the opportunity to reconnect with friends and forge new relationships in the process.
Lee valued action over words. To honor her memory, take a moment to reflect on something you admired in Lee and pay it forward. Compliment someone on a quality or strength they may not realize they have. Help facilitate a connection by making an introduction or offering career advice to a colleague. Take the time to tell someone what they mean to you, and don’t be afraid to show your appreciation in tangible ways.
Lee’s legacy will live on in the memories she created and the lives she touched. She was a true example of how to live life to the fullest and to approach every moment with energy, passion, and a deep commitment to others. Her spirit continues to inspire those who knew her to live and lead with purpose.