Introducing -- Our Fourth 2026 Distinguished Alumni Award Recipient!

Lisa Hillesheim Ryan has worn many hats as a successful accountant, but she also has proven to be a gifted musician and a caring volunteer. After graduating in 1980, Lisa started her life’s journey at the University of Minnesota Carlson School of Management and earned her BSB in Accounting. She attained a rare accomplishment by passing all four parts of the national CPA exam on the first try.

After graduation and marriage, Lisa’s career took her family from Minneapolis to Chicago, Seattle, and back to Faribault in 2001. Some of the titles Lisa held were auditor, controller, senior cost analyst, financial analyst, consultant, technical finance manager, and cost accounting manager. With each of these jobs, Lisa looked to solve existing problems in the accounting systems and improve operations. Lisa personally takes pride in her work with other employees, the positive effect she had on others, and her ability to teach new ideas.

One of Lisa’s joys in life is singing. In high school, she received Star ratings in band, sat first chair in concert and jazz band. She also participated in select and chamber choir. When her choir director heard she was selected for the FHS Distinguished Alumni Award, he commented how deserving she was and that he would never forget her performance as the Wicked Witch of the West – with green face and a beautiful voice!

Through the years, Lisa has shared her time and talent to sing in numerous groups. She joined the Immaculate Conception Church and sang with the Voce Lumine and Paradisum choirs. She also has soloed for numerous funerals and special events. When asked about her willingness to sing at funerals, she said, “It is an honor to be asked to sing for a loved one’s funeral. The thank-you notes I have received can bring me to tears”. In 2014, Lisa joined Beau Chant, the Faribault Community Choir, performing five to six major concerts each year. The group has also performed in other states and internationally. Lisa is on the board of directors for the group.

It’s obvious that Lisa Hillesheim Ryan has gone above and beyond what is expected in everything she does. She is definitely a worthy recipient of the Distinguished Alumni Award.