Lily Ann Adams was born in Manila, Philippines. She came to Canada with her parents and two younger brothers in 1988, when she was 12 years old. Her family settled in Scarborough. She speaks Tagalog and Ilonggo. She earned her three degrees from the University of Toronto, including her Master of Education. Before she became an administrator, Lily taught for 15 years. She taught Mathematics, Social Science, Drama, and Religion. She was also a School Chaplain and Student Success Teacher.