Samantha Renovato ‘10

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From the moment she set foot on Lewis University’s campus, Samantha Renovato ‘10 knew she had found more than just a school - she had found a community grounded in values that mirrored her own. Drawn to Lewis by its Lasallian commitment to justice and service, Samantha was inspired not only by the beauty of the campus but by its culture of care and connection. “Although I’m not religious - I'm more spiritual - the Lasallian values truly resonated with me,” she reflected.

As a first-generation college student, her path wasn’t always linear, but it was transformative. She initially enrolled as a psychology major, but it was an introductory course in Human Resource Management, recommended by her advisor, Dr. Greenwood, that shifted her career trajectory. That one class opened the door to a field she quickly grew passionate about and led her to pursue a double major.

Outside the classroom, Samantha found purpose and leadership through involvement in LASO and Delta Sigma Pi. These organizations gave her lifelong friendships and helped develop the confidence and skills she carries into her professional life today. “My time at Lewis helped shape both my professional direction and my personal development, and I’m deeply grateful for the experience,” she stated.

Thanks to Lewis' emphasis on real-world experience, including a required internship before graduation, Samantha gained early exposure to HR work and began building her network before even receiving her diploma. She credits those early experiences with giving her a competitive edge in the job market, a perspective she now carries into her current leadership role, where she champions inclusive talent development and encourages young professionals through mentoring.

Today, Samantha leads Global Inclusion & Belonging and Community Impact at Ingredion, where her work touches every corner of the globe. “This work speaks to every part of me and is very personal for everyone involved; it brings together the heart, the head, and the hands,” she said. From shaping company culture to empowering individuals to show up as their full selves, Samantha is helping redefine what workplace belonging looks like.

What keeps her going? The people. “Everyone wants to be seen, heard, and valued. When people feel they belong, they thrive. And that’s the kind of impact I want to be part of.”

Though her professional life keeps her busy and often crosses time zones, Samantha is just as focused on her personal legacy. As a new aunt, she’s recently found herself thinking more about the kind of world we’re building for the next generation. “Legacy isn’t just about big milestones - it’s about how we show up every day.”

To current Lewis students, her advice is clear and heartfelt:

  • Lead with curiosity.
  • Stay brave. Growth lives outside your comfort zone.
  • Listen to understand, not just to respond.
  • Get involved - it’s how you build confidence and community.
  • Internships matter more than you think.
  • And always, always ask questions.
Looking back, she knows her journey wouldn’t be the same without the community that supported her, from her family and mentors to the friendships she built at Lewis. “Having people you can turn to - whether for advice, encouragement, or just to share similar experiences - can be a game changer. It reminds you that you’re not alone, and that shared support can carry you through both the challenges and the wins,” she shared.

And if you ask her what’s next? She’s exactly where she wants to be, making a difference through work she loves, rooted in values that have carried her since her days at Lewis. As a Flyer, Samantha embodies the Mission of Lewis University - using her talents, passion, and purpose to create a more just and compassionate world, one bold step at a time.

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