Lisa Cummins Shares Her Reflections on Purpose and Legacy at Midwest Transplant Network

Midwest Transplant Network Quality Assurance Coordinator II, Lisa Cummins, ASQ-CQIA, tells her story of a 42-year career at MTN and what it means to her.

In 1982, Lisa Cummins answered a newspaper ad for a receptionist role at Midwest Transplant Network. Despite initially failing the typing test, her perfect resume earned her a chance — a decision that would lead to a lifelong commitment to the organization and its mission.

In early July, Lisa will wrap up a 42-year career, one that she knew made a difference every day. Over four decades, Lisa held nearly 10 different roles, steadily rising through the ranks, driven by a sense of purpose and a passion for helping others.

Why did Lisa stay at MTN for all those years? “I’ve been blessed to make a difference in somebody’s life every single day,” said Lisa. “There’s nothing more rewarding than that. I’ve stayed because of the culture and the people I’ve worked with at MTN.”

From the early days of donor cards to today’s first-person authorization, Lisa witnessed the evolution of organ, eye and tissue donation firsthand. Her own experience as a two-time recipient for breast reconstruction after cancer brought the mission full circle. It deepened her empathy and commitment to the organization.

Lisa said she’s not a public speaker, but she has been asked to share her story during National Donate Life Month in April. “Sometimes tissue donor families don’t get to meet the recipients,” said Lisa. “I feel like I’m the face of a recipient to those tissue donor families they can see. These families might not understand what a difference a tissue donation makes. Their loved one wasn’t just a tissue donor. Tissue is just as vital as organ transplants.”

What will retirement look like for Lisa? She plans to fill her days with travel, golf and cooking lessons. Her desire to give back remains strong.

Lisa plans to stay involved by volunteering at events like MTN’s Donate Life Legacy Walk, and continue to advocate for organ, eye and tissue donation.

We wish Lisa all the best in retirement.