Lisa Wandel and Don Wismer have been promoted to vice president roles and Dr. Lisa Finucane joins the team behind America’s Beauty Show.
Cosmetologists Chicago, the nonprofit organization that owns and produces America’s Beauty Show, announces the promotions of Lisa Wandel to Vice President of Operations and Don Wismer to Vice President of Education, and welcomes Dr. Lisa Finucane in Business Development.
These appointments recognize the talent and dedication of a team united by a shared purpose: serving the professional beauty community with passion and care. Since 1912, that spirit of service has helped sustain Cosmetologists Chicago, shaping a culture that attracts, supports and retains people who find meaning in helping others succeed.
Lisa Wandel, Vice President of Operations Since joining Cosmetologists Chicago and America’s Beauty Show in December 2023, Lisa Wandel has demonstrated organizational expertise, thoughful leadership, and a commitment to service. As Director of Operations, she helped streamline internal processes, coordinate event logistics, and strengthen the support provided to members, exhibitors, partners and attendees.
As Vice President of Operations, Wandel will continue to oversee organizational systems, event operations, and team collaboration. Her attention to detail and dedication support the successful delivery of the organization’s programs, initiatives, and annual America’s Beauty Show.
Since joining America’s Beauty Show in January 2025, Don Wismer has helped advance educational programming and strengthen relationships with industry educators, artists and professionals. As Vice President of Education, Wismer will continue to develop innovative learning experiences and expand industry partnerships.
His work advances the organization’s mission by providing relevant, high-quality education that inspires creativity, strengthens skills and supports beauty professionals at every stage of their careers.
Dr. Lisa Finucane joins the team in Business Development, focusing on strategic industry relationships, brand partnerships, and new opportunities that support the continued growth of America’s Beauty Show.
Her work will connect beauty professionals, brands and industry leaders through sponsorships, collaboration, and opportunities for shared growth, supporting the organization’s mission to serve the professional beauty community.
A Culture That Helps People Grow
The promotions and new appointment reflect a commitment to recognizing talent, creating opportunities for employees to grow and welcoming people who share the organization’s passion for service. Across the team, individual strengths contribute to a collective mission: helping beauty professionals learn, connect and succeed.
“Our people are the heart of Cosmetologists Chicago. Lisa and Don bring talent, care and a genuine desire to serve others to their work every day, and we are grateful to welcome Dr. Lisa Finucane to our team,” said Dr. Frank P. Fulco, Chief Executive Officer of Cosmetologists Chicago and America’s Beauty Show.
“We are blessed to have the opportunity to serve this industry and to attract and retain talented people who share that passion. That spirit of service makes our culture special. It is what has sustained our mission since 1912 and what will carry it forward.”
Serving the Community in 2027
For more than a century, Cosmetologists Chicago has been dedicated to supporting licensed beauty professionals through education, advocacy, innovation and community. These leadership appointments reinforce the organization’s commitment to its nonprofit mission and continued investment in the people who help bring that mission to life.
Looking ahead, America’s Beauty Show 2027 will take place April 3–5, 2027, at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois. With the theme PULSE: The Heartbeat of the Professional Beauty Industry, the show will bring together beauty professionals, educators, artists, brands, and industry leaders for three days of education, artistry, discovery and connection.
Tickets for America’s Beauty Show 2027 are on sale at www.AmericasBeautyShow.com.