Meet the Board of Directors
Meet the team that have collaborated on brining this organization together and to the community!
Founder and CEO
Lisa Retezan
Lisa Retezan is a dedicated Certified Peer Recovery Specialist with over four years of experience in supporting individuals on their recovery journeys. She possesses valuable skills in connecting people to resources, motivational interviewing, and fostering community support. Currently serving as the Executive Director, Lisa has been actively involved in the recovery community within Washington County, collaborating with various organizations and nonprofits from the start of her career in peer recovery.
As the founder of WayMakers to Recovery, she aims to streamline access to community resources and make recovery support more accessible. A proud member of the recovery community herself, Lisa has maintained a life within her recovery since September 13, 2018. Outside of her professional endeavors, she is a devoted mother of two and enjoys gardening and engaging in DIY projects during her free time.
Chair of the Board
Rosa Ferrara
Rosa is a proud mother, veteran, and woman in long-term recovery. With deep personal commitment to her own recovery, spirituality, and family, Rosa lives each day with purpose—choosing to prioritize her healing and growth not as an option, but as a way of life.
Drawing from her own lived experience, Rosa brings over 3,000 hours of ethical, hands-on work supporting individuals on their recovery journeys. Her exceptional motivational interviewing skills and client-centered approach empower those she serves to take control of their lives and embrace lasting change. Rosa has a unique ability to connect with individuals who may be difficult to engage, offering hope, guidance, and understanding during their most challenging times.
In addition to her extensive work in recovery, Rosa brings valuable insights from her background in the criminal justice system and child protective services. She is currently pursuing her education to become a licensed drug and alcohol counselor, further strengthening her ability to serve her community.
Rosa’s mission is to create a safe, collaborative space where people with shared experiences can grow, heal, and support one another on the path to recovery.
Board Secretary
Ryan Jensen
Ryan Jensen is a dedicated professional with over 17 years of experience in the criminal justice field, specializing in supporting crime victims and their families. A lifelong Twin Cities resident, Ryan has served as a medical examiner death investigator for Anoka, Ramsey, and Washington Counties, where he conducted in-depth scene investigations with compassion and precision.
Beyond his forensic work, Ryan has guided countless crime victims through the complexities of the criminal justice system—from initial law enforcement contact through court proceedings and sentencing. His commitment to justice is matched by a deep passion for prevention and education.
Driven by personal experience, having lost his father to opioid addiction at a young age, Ryan is a strong advocate for drug prevention and community outreach. He frequently delivers presentations to high school students and their parents, educating them on the dangers of opioid and alcohol use.
Ryan is committed to serving the residents of Washington County by connecting them with vital resources and promoting healthier, safer communities through prevention, support, and lived experience.
Board Treasurer
Mike Nagan
Mike Nagan is a Project Manager at a leading printing company, where he oversees complex operational initiatives and drives continuous improvement across production systems. He began his career as a maintenance technician and worked his way up to Maintenance Manager before stepping into his current leadership role, gaining deep experience in technical operations, team development, and project execution along the way. His hands-on experience and deep understanding of facility operations have made him a respected figure within the organization.
Mike’s commitment to community service is rooted in personal experience. After witnessing a close family member struggle to find a path to recovery, he became deeply aware of the gaps in accessible support systems. This inspired his dedication to helping create a place where individuals can find guidance and hope as they begin their journey toward healing. His commitment to supporting others during their most vulnerable moments continues to guide his involvement and advocacy.
Outside of work, Mike is a dedicated outdoorsman who enjoys hunting, fishing, and perfecting his BBQ skills. He finds fulfillment in lending a hand when it's needed most and believes in the power of showing up with compassion and purpose.
