Lisa Cotter '05

On this episode of Always a Raven, host Janelle Menz reconnects with Lisa Cotter, a 2005 Benedictine College graduate, wife, mother, author, speaker, entrepreneur, and longtime Catholic voice helping others encounter faith in a relatable and deeply human way. Lisa shares how a campus visit that unexpectedly felt like home led her to Benedictine — and how that decision became providential as she navigated her father’s illness, found a community rooted in faith, and discovered friendships and professors who helped carry her through one of the hardest seasons of her life.

Lisa reflects on how Benedictine formed not only her mind, but her heart — giving her a place where faith moved from something personal to something lived in community, friendship, study, and mission. From returning to campus as a resident director while her husband served with FOCUS, to later stepping into speaking, writing, and creating content for Hallow, she shares how God opened doors she never planned for and used her Benedictine formation in ways she never could have imagined.

Now through her books, speaking, and daily work on Hallowed Be Thy Day, Lisa continues to make the faith approachable, practical, and alive — helping others see the beauty of the saints, the richness of the Church, and the dignity of their own vocation. Her story is a reminder that being a Raven means carrying the lessons, community, and formation of Benedictine into every season of life — because once the Raven is in you, it never really leaves.