Since 1995, the United States has recognized every March as Women’s History Month. During this month we celebrate the contributions and achievements that women, both past and present, have made over the course of American history, culture and community. To celebrate Women’s History Month, Columbia Southern University is honored to recognize students, alumnae and faculty who are playing a vital role in leadership within their respective industries.
Dr. Ceceile Flood serves as lead faculty of graduate programs in occupational safety and health at CSU. In her many years of research, Dr. Flood’s other credentials include a Ph.D. in pharmacology and toxicology, associate safety professional (ASP®) certification and PCQI food safety assistant instructor. Although she’s had many experiences in her field, Dr. Flood’s most rewarding role is being a part of introducing students to a career in safety.
“The most rewarding part of my job is to have a student take the time to let me know that I have made a difference in their educational journey,” she said. “It is a joy to share my own knowledge and play a role in the educational journey of others. No matter how students utilize their education, once it is obtained, then no one can take it away from you.”
With years of expertise in her respective field, Dr. Flood incorporates what she has learned in her teachings.
“I worked for years doing research in both neuroscience and lung biology in connection to toxicity as well as spending time working in laboratories for both the Department of Health, and the Department of Environmental Protection,” she said. “I incorporate all of the knowledge and experiences into the case studies in the courses that I write, and the discussions that I hold with students in class.”
Dr. Flood is also a member of the American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP), American Chemical Society (ACS) and the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA).
“I recently passed the APS exam, and am now working on my CSP® certification,” she said. “I think it is important to be a lifelong learner and to never stop seeking knowledge and experiences that help you to grow.”
Although she’s had much success, Dr. Flood has been no stranger to the challenges life throws one’s way while pursuing their education. With this, she strives to be a relatable example to those she teaches.
“When I was a Ph.D. candidate, I was a newlywed and first-time mom with a newborn baby,” she said. “I held a part-time job and was enrolled as full-time student writing my dissertation and completing final lab experiments. Now as a professor, I come across many students who wear many hats and face many obstacles in their journey to completing their degree. Life happens. I can tell students to push through because I have been there and understand what it is like to navigate life while going to school.”
“Persistence, determination and prayer are the key to success,” she said. “You are the only person who can place a ceiling on what you do and how far you can go. Believe in yourself, and the sky is the limit.
Disclaimer: These testimonials may not reflect the experience of all CSU students.
Multiple factors, including prior experience, geography, and degree field, affect career outcomes.
CSU does not guarantee a job, promotion, salary increase, eligibility for a position, or other career growth.
