Lisa D. Cooper Buford
Lisa Cooper Buford is a dedicated faith-based leader, healthcare advocate, and community servant with a rich career spanning both ministry and patient advocacy. She currently serves as a Member Advocate 2 at Premier Inc., where she excels in patient advocacy, healthcare coordination, claims and appeals support, and quality improvement initiatives. Lisa’s expertise in customer service, communication, and process management allows her to effectively support members, medical providers, and insurers while facilitating staff training and onboarding programs.
In addition to her work in healthcare, Lisa serves as Pastor at New Mount Calvary Missionary Baptist Church in Ravenna, Ohio, where she is deeply committed to guiding her congregation and engaging with the community. She is most proud of being the first female pastor at the church where she grew up and was baptized. Known for her hands-on leadership style, she stays connected with her congregation and leads faith-based initiatives such as her Facebook Bible study, “What God Says About You,” which she has been hosting twice weekly for the past three years.
Lisa holds a bachelor’s degree in Communications and Public Relations from Little C State University (1985) and is a member of the international sorority Nu Alpha Delta, actively supporting their cause to stop the trafficking of women and children. She is a breast cancer survivor, an award recipient for integrity from a previous employer, and values family and community deeply. Outside of work and ministry, she enjoys spending time with her four-year-old grandson, friends, and family, as well as making crafts and playing board games, with Monopoly being her favorite.
• Nu Alpha Delta
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to God and the importance of timing. I have embraced my calling with humility, recognizing that my work is not about me but about serving a greater purpose. By remaining open and committed to fulfilling what I believe God has called me to do, I have been able to make a meaningful impact and achieve success aligned with my values.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to work hard and remain dedicated, but also to prioritize balance and make time for rest and rejuvenation. Sustaining both effort and well-being allows for long-term success, clarity, and effectiveness in all that I do.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to be diligent in your studies, maintain a strong relationship with God, and allow yourself to be guided by the Holy Spirit. Staying grounded in faith while committing to continuous learning and growth will provide direction, resilience, and a foundation for meaningful success.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge in my field right now is navigating the current economic climate. In these uncertain times, many individuals and families are facing financial and personal struggles, which underscores the importance of providing compassionate, informed support and guidance. At the same time, this environment presents an opportunity to make a meaningful impact by helping others navigate complexity and access the resources they need.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are rooted in my Christian faith. I believe in living with integrity and authenticity, embracing the principle of “walking the walk, not just talking the talk.” This commitment guides my decisions, interactions, and the way I serve others, ensuring that my actions align with my beliefs.