Riverland Community College announces that Lisa Simon, cosmetology instructor at Riverland, has been appointed by the Governor’s Office to serve on the Minnesota Board of Cosmetology Examiners. 

Simon, of Owatonna, will serve as a Public School Instructor representative. Her term began April 22, 2026, and runs through January 7, 2030. 

Riverland’s cosmetology program is further represented on the board by Rhonda Besel, who also serves as a member of the Board of Cosmetology Examiners.

“We are proud to see Lisa recognized with this appointment,” said Heather Conley, vice president of academics and innovation at Riverland. “It is especially meaningful to have two of our faculty members serving on the Board of Cosmetology Examiners. This speaks directly to the quality of instruction in our cosmetology program and the expertise our faculty bring to the profession.”

The Board of Cosmetology Examiners regulates the practice of cosmetology in Minnesota, ensuring public protection through licensing, standards, and oversight of the profession. 

Simon’s appointment reflects Riverland’s commitment to preparing students for careers that meet industry standards and serve communities across the region.

Riverland Community College, a member of the Minnesota State system, is a community college that strives to transform lives through excellence in service, education, and career training. Approximately 4,300 students are served annually through a wide range of credit-based educational opportunities. Riverland has campuses located in Albert Lea, Austin and Owatonna, Minnesota, and online at www.riverland.edu. 

Minnesota State includes 26 community and technical colleges and seven state universities serving approximately 270,000 students. It is the fourth-largest system of two-year colleges and four-year universities in the United States.