Liz Lidgett (MC '03) Named Theta's 35 Under 35

Alpha Mu is proud to announce that one of our alumnae, Liz Lidgett, has been named Kappa Alpha Theta’s 35 Under 35 for 2019! This award recognizes young alumnae ages 35 and under for their achievements after their time in college.

Liz is the CEO of Liz Lidgett Gallery and Design which is an art consultation business for private companies and corporations. She has worked with major brands and publications such as Better Homes and Gardens, Martha Stewart, and Apartment Therapy. Get to know Liz a bit better below!

Member Class: 2003

Major: Art History and Journalism-Strategic Communications

Tell us a little bit about your business, Liz Lidgett Gallery and Design, and your role within it.

I am the CEO and owner of Liz Lidgett Gallery and Design. I started my company as an art advisor seven years ago. The company has evolved over that time with us rebranding and opening the gallery space in May of this year. My role has me doing a bit of everything but my main role is working with artists, selecting art for the gallery, and creating designs for our clients

How did you get started in the art/art advising world?

After four amazing years at Mizzou, I received my masters from USC in Public Art. From there I moved to my hometown of Des Moines, IA, and became the in-house curator for a corporate art collection. From there, I saw that there was a niche in the Midwest where many potential clients needed help with their art. I felt like I was just the woman to do it.

What’s the best thing about your job?

Art can completely change a space. It can bring joy to people and make them fall in love with their home or space. Creating rooms and spaces that people feel proud of, all through art and great design, is such a great feeling.

What else are you passionate about?

I am very passionate about my family. My husband Nick Renkoski (also a Mizzou alum) and our son, Rocky, are my two favorite people. I’m also very passionate about traveling. We took Rocky to Australia and New Zealand (to visit my Alpha Mu sister, Janna Johnson O’Toole!) and we are heading to Italy in a few weeks for a road trip. Traveling and seeing new places inspires me and keeps me fresh for new, creative ideas at work.

What are some other career/life goals you have?

I love to set goals. Some of my major goals include to keep growing the business and eventually write a book about decorating with artwork.

How has your membership and involvement in Theta influenced your life?

So, so much. When I came to Mizzou and became a Theta, I felt like I had really found my people. It was amazing to be in an environment where we all supported each other. I found some of my very best friends at Theta and I met women who inspire me to this day.

What are some of your favorite Theta memories?

I loved being a Pi Chi for Recruitment and revealing myself as a Theta at the end of the week. I still remember running back to my sisters and being so proud to be a Theta. Also, anything and everything with Homecoming.

What advice would you give to your college-aged self?

Do all of the things. Volunteer. Meet all of the people. Get out there and try everything. College is this incredible time where you have time, energy, and little responsibility -- soak it up and take advantage of it.

Congratulations, Liz! Alpha Mu is so proud!