Elise Henderson has been a pivotal figure in the Department of Occupational Safety & Fire Sciences at Brookwood University for several decades. Her distinguished career is marked by a deep commitment to advancing safety practices and fire science education. Henderson is renowned for her innovative research, dedicated teaching, and significant contributions to the field of occupational safety.
Dr. Henderson’s research explores a wide array of topics within occupational safety and fire sciences, including risk management, emergency response strategies, and fire prevention technologies. Her groundbreaking study on advanced fire suppression systems has been instrumental in shaping modern fire safety protocols. She has been the principal investigator on numerous projects funded by prestigious grants, including the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
In addition to her research, Dr. Henderson is a sought-after speaker at national and international conferences. Her lectures cover topics such as the latest advancements in fire science, the development of effective safety training programs, and the integration of technology in emergency management. Her keynote addresses at the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Conference and the International Safety and Health Conference have been met with acclaim for their insightful and forward-thinking content.
Dr. Henderson’s contributions to occupational safety have earned her several awards and honors. She was named the 2022 Safety Science Educator of the Year by the American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) and received the 2021 Fire Safety Leadership Award from the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC). Her expertise has also led to her serving on numerous advisory boards and committees, including the National Fire Protection Association’s Technical Committee on Fire Safety Education and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) Fire Safety Advisory Board.
As a dedicated educator, Dr. Henderson has influenced countless students through her engaging teaching style and comprehensive curriculum. She has developed several pioneering courses in occupational safety and fire sciences, including advanced training modules for fire safety professionals and emergency responders. Her work in curriculum development has been instrumental in shaping the future of safety education at Brookwood University and beyond.
Dr. Henderson holds a PhD in Fire Protection Engineering from the University of Maryland, a Master’s degree in Occupational Safety from the University of California, Berkeley, and a Bachelor’s degree in Fire Science from the University of Florida. Her academic background is complemented by her extensive practical experience in the field, which includes serving as a firefighter and safety officer before entering academia.
In her role as the Head of the Department of Occupational Safety & Fire Sciences, Dr. Henderson continues to lead with vision and dedication. She is committed to fostering a learning environment that emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical application, preparing students to meet the challenges of a rapidly evolving field.
Dr. Henderson’s ongoing research projects include developing new fire safety technologies and exploring the impact of climate change on fire behavior. She is also working on a forthcoming publication that will address the future of occupational safety in an increasingly complex world.
Elise Henderson’s contributions to occupational safety and fire sciences have left a lasting impact on the field, and her leadership at Brookwood University ensures that the next generation of safety professionals will be well-equipped to face the challenges of tomorrow.