Sam Hilgendorf

Sam earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts in Vocal Performance and Theater from Concordia University Wisconsin and began his journey on stages with Florentine Opera (Turandot), Skylight Opera (The Barber of Seville), and Off the Wall Theater (You’re Gonna Love Tomorrow). He also performed Carmina Burana with the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra. Other stage credits include Oklahoma, Children of Eden, Into the Woods, and Chess.

Then life unfolded. Career, family, responsibility. The stage lights dimmed for quite a while.

Twenty-five years later, he stepped back into the spotlight as Oliver “Daddy” Warbucks in Sheboygan Theatre for Young Audiences’ production of Annie, discovering that some callings never fade; they simply wait for their moment.

In this, his “second act,” Sam brings not only trained voice and craft, but also the perspective, depth, and gratitude that only time can give.

By day, he serves as Chief Information Officer for Fox World Travel, supporting clients and travelers worldwide. He leads technology strategy, innovation, and digital experience initiatives that enable seamless travel across borders. Balancing boardrooms and backstage, he believes leadership and storytelling share the same foundation: clarity, connection, and heart.

The love of theater has always been a thread running through his family’s story. His daughter, Heather, finds her own voice in song and performance, while his wife, Kay, shapes the magic behind the curtain through scenic design, costumes, and countless creative touches. For them, the stage is not simply a passion but a shared journey of creation, each production another chapter written together.