Her Story
About Tamara
Dr. Tamara Lapsley, MEP, PMP is a distinguished federal executive leader, author, and leadership coach with expertise in emergency management, crisis leadership, operational excellence, and empowering women through personal and professional transitions. She currently serves as Director of Travel Operations for the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) within the U.S. Department of Energy, where she leads enterprise travel operations, governance, compliance, and strategic improvement initiatives. With a career spanning military service, law enforcement, emergency management, and federal leadership, Dr. Lapsley has built a reputation for resilience, mission-focused leadership, and advancing organizational readiness in complex environments.
Dr. Lapsley earned her Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration with a concentration in Emergency Management from Walden University and holds a Master’s degree in Management in Public Administration from the University of Phoenix. Her extensive professional journey includes service as an Army veteran, correctional officer, police officer, and emergency management specialist, providing her with a unique foundation in leadership, crisis response, continuity planning, and community service. Throughout her federal career, she has led national operations, developed emergency preparedness strategies, managed critical programs, and supported senior leaders in making informed decisions during complex and evolving situations.
Beyond her federal leadership, Dr. Lapsley is the founder of Elegant Coaching, a coaching practice dedicated to helping high-performing women over 40 transition from burnout to purpose, embrace their experiences, and confidently step into their next chapter. She is the author of the newly released book, A Daughter. A Mother. A Wife. A Soldier… A WOMAN, and the accompanying Second Acts Success Blueprint workbook, which inspire women to recognize their resilience, redefine success, and pursue meaningful transformation. Through her writing, coaching, and service as a disaster manager with the American Red Cross, Dr. Lapsley continues to champion leadership, empowerment, balance, self-care, and the importance of community. As a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, she remains committed to uplifting others through service, mentorship, and purpose-driven leadership.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Tamara
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a strong sense of purpose, community, and service. Throughout my career and personal journey, I have found fulfillment in helping others and making a positive impact wherever I can. Supporting people in times of need gives me a deep sense of pride because I believe in doing my part as a human being, a neighbor, and a member of the community. My commitment to service, compassion, and uplifting others has guided my decisions, shaped my leadership style, and motivated me to continue creating meaningful change.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would advise young women entering my industry to focus on finding balance and recognizing the value of teamwork. As leaders, we often feel the pressure to solve every problem ourselves, but true leadership comes from knowing when to rely on the strengths and expertise of those around us. Building strong relationships, trusting your team, and understanding that you do not have to carry every challenge alone are essential to long-term success. Embrace collaboration, take care of yourself, and remember that effective leadership is not about doing everything—it is about empowering others and achieving goals together.
03What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are faith, gratitude, balance, and self-care. My faith has become a guiding foundation, and I begin each day with prayer and appreciation for the opportunities and blessings in my life. I believe in being intentional about taking care of myself, which allows me to better serve others and show up as the best version of myself. I have learned the importance of creating balance, making time for personal growth, and prioritizing moments of reflection and renewal. By nurturing my faith, practicing gratitude, and investing in self-care, I am able to lead with greater compassion, purpose, and authenticity.
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