Lisa Stapleton-Biala, DrPH, MS, GSP
Lisa Stapleton-Biala, DrPH, MS, is an accomplished Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) professional with extensive experience in Occupational Health, safety Management, and Public Health education. Currently serving as the Director of Environment, Health, and Safety at the University of Mary Washington, she provides strategic oversight for environmental compliance, laboratory safety, hazardous waste management, and chemical safety programs. Lisa’s leadership ensures the highest standards of worker health and safety, while supporting special projects and fostering a culture of total worker well-being across the campus. In addition to her role at the university, Lisa is an Adjunct Assistant Professor at Virginia State University, where she teaches biology laboratory courses within the Natural and Health Sciences department. Her professional background spans over a decade in environmental health and workplace safety, including leadership roles at Mondelēz International and Amazon. She has a proven track record in data analysis, emergency management, ergonomics, and safety training, consistently driving improvements in operational safety, compliance, and workforce wellness. Lisa holds a Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) from Capella University, where she focused on improving ergonomic practices in the manufacturing industry, working within diverse communities, collaborating with healthcare professionals and using applied based research to solve public health issues as well as a Master of Science in Occupational Health and Safety/Environmental Management from Columbia Southern University. A dedicated public health educator and adjunct assistant professor, she combines technical expertise with a commitment to mentoring the next generation of health and safety professionals, reflecting a career devoted to enhancing both workplace safety and community well-being.
• Certificate, Mathematics and Chemistry
• Capella University - DrPH
• Cum laude
• National Society for Leadership and Success
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to God almighty, my family (biggest motivators), hard work and discipline. Life has been known to show you challenges; it is what you do with the challenges will make you stronger. It is ok to feel defeated, frustrated and even cry, but after that you have to recharge and get yourself together and keep it moving (one foot in front of the other is what I say) failure is not an option.
1. Make a plan of what you want to do.
2. Set goals. Short term and long-term goals. I like short-term because these are 3 months. You feel a sense an accomplishment when you are finished. Then you ask what is the next short-term goal that is a part of your long-term goal.
3. Review your plan and goal setting. Life does not wait for you to accomplish these goals. Things will happen life may change you have to remain focus.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
It doesn't matter your age, gender, how many children you have, where you came from...if you have a dream or an accomplishment that you want to achieve, make a plan and begin working on your plan.