Lillian Rizzo
Lillian Rizzo
Class Year
’24
Current home
Franklin, Wisconsin
Major(s)
Management, Marketing
Current Position
Field Marketing and Engagement Coordinator with Parkhurst Dining at ǿմý
Lillian Rizzo ’24 began working for Parkhurst Dining at Carthage as a student — unaware that the role would launch her career. Now a graduate with degrees in marketing and management, she serves as Parkhurst’s field marketing and engagement coordinator at Carthage. In her position, Ms. Rizzo supports all dining operations by driving marketing, engagement, and compliance initiatives to enhance guest experience and team performance. Her duties include working closely with directors, overseeing social media and event marketing across platforms, managing student interns, and leading team events that encourage a positive workplace culture. Recently, Ms. Rizzo helped create and implement a comprehensive dietary accommodation program to support student needs better.
Besides working on campus, Ms. Rizzo stays involved with the College by attending campus and alumni events. She feels as if Carthage is a second home, thanks to the numerous opportunities she has been given as a student and through her work with Parkhurst Dining. “I love staying connected with students and alumni, and being part of the same supportive environment that helped shape my career and who I am today,” she says.
What have you enjoyed most about your career?
“I’ve especially enjoyed the engagement aspect of my role. As a proud Carthage graduate, I value the opportunity to stay connected to the community and contribute to student retention and enrollment by speaking with tour groups and summer camps. I genuinely enjoy sharing my experiences and promoting both Carthage and Parkhurst Dining to current and prospective students. It’s rewarding to know that my enthusiasm helps inspire students to come and stay here.”
How did Carthage prepare you?
“My time at Carthage really set me up for what I do now. The classes in marketing, social media, management, and sales gave me the skills I use every day. The College’s hands-on approach — especially working on real campaigns and delivering presentations — helped me learn how to communicate and connect with people in the field. Overall, Carthage taught me how to apply what I learned in the classroom to the real world. This ultimately set me up for success in a fast-paced, people-focused environment.”
How has your liberal arts education benefited you?
“I utilized the critical thinking and communication skills I gained from my liberal arts education when contributing to the development of Parkhurst’s new allergen program. I started from the ground up, reworking the entire system to make it more organized and easier for our team to use. This process required examining the challenge from multiple angles, collaborating across departments, and identifying practical solutions that made our operations smoother and more efficient.”
Why did you choose Carthage?
“I chose Carthage because my high school track coach couldn’t stop talking about how great it was — especially the . He even handed me an application to fill out, and that’s what got me hooked. Once I visited, I fell in love with the small class sizes, the School of Business and Economics, and the close-knit community that makes Carthage feel like home.”
What opportunities were made possible because of your Carthage experience?
“Carthage gave me the opportunity to work on campus, which ultimately shaped my entire career path. Through that experience, I discovered my passion for dining and hospitality and found my future with Parkhurst Dining. It was the perfect way to blend my love for people, food, and marketing — all within a community I care about.”
What Carthage professors played a part in your success and how?
“PǴڱǰ Carter Rockhill, Lisa Franklin, and Gary Keller all played a huge role in my success. They were always there to offer career advice, guidance, and encouragement, both during my time at Carthage and even after graduation. Their support helped me grow not only academically, but also personally and professionally, and I’m grateful to still have those connections today.”
What role have the values in Carthage's mission, "Seeking Truth, Building Strength, Inspiring Service — Together" played in your life?
“Carthage’s mission continues to play a significant role in my life and career. Seeking truth reminds me to always keep learning and looking for better ways to serve our guests and team. Building strength reflects how I’ve grown personally and professionally — developing confidence and resilience through challenges. Lastly, inspiring service shows up every day in the way I support our dining team and campus community. Working in hospitality enables me to embody those values by crafting meaningful experiences and fostering a sense of care for others.”
What's your favorite Carthage memory?
“Some of my favorite memories are from being with my teammates and traveling to and meets. Those experiences created friendships and moments I’ll never forget.”
Tips for current Carthage students?
“Always take the time to connect and build relationships with the people around you. You never know when those connections will make a difference or when you’ll need their support. The relationships you build at Carthage and at your workplace can open doors, offer guidance, and shape your future in ways you might not expect.”