Leslie Chapman-Henderson Honored as 2025 NIBS Exceptional Woman in Building for Her Remarkable Leadership

Flashing a Light on Leadership in Building: Leslie Chapman-Henderson

The recent announcement of Leslie Chapman-Henderson as the 2025 recipient of the National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS) Exceptional Woman in Building Award is a testament to her unyielding dedication and innovative mindset in the construction sector. With over 25 years of expertise, Chapman-Henderson, as the President and CEO of the Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH), has been instrumental in advocating for disaster resilience and building safety nationwide.

A Celebration of Innovation and Advocacy

This prestigious recognition was conferred during the Building Innovation 2025 conference held in McLean, Virginia, a gathering rich with industry leaders and policymakers. It emphasizes both Chapman-Henderson's profound impact and the collaborative effort necessary within the sector to promote safety and resilience in building practices.

Judy Dinelle, Chair of the Awards Committee and Building Ambassador for 84 Lumber, highlighted Chapman-Henderson's visionary leadership and relentless commitment to disaster resilience. She noted, "Her work has not only transformed how we think about building safety—it has saved lives and empowered communities across the nation."

Empowering Communities Through Innovation

Leslie’s leadership has guided FLASH in creating initiatives that bridge creative and technical expertise, exemplified by the launch of significant programs like the 'Strong Homes Scale' and the wildfire safety initiative 'No Fuel. No Fire.™'. These initiatives exemplify her commitment to equipping homeowners and leaders with essential knowledge to enhance disaster preparedness and safety.

Reflecting on receiving the award, Chapman-Henderson expressed, "This recognition highlights the power of collaboration and innovation to create positive change." Her humility and gratitude extend not only to NIBS but also to her dedicated team and various partners who share the vision of a more disaster-resilient nation.

Elevating Women in Building

Another cornerstone of Chapman-Henderson’s tenure has been her tireless advocacy for women in the building science and resilience landscape. She has consistently provided mentorship and guidance to emerging professionals, fostering a culture of support and encouragement in sectors where women have historically been underrepresented. This aspect of her leadership is well-celebrated, as it contributes to a more inclusive and dynamic industry environment.

The Future: Building a Disaster-Resilient Nation

Underneath the accolades, the work of FLASH continues to thrive. The organization acts as a vital consumer advocacy group, working towards strengthening homes and safeguarding families against natural disasters. Collaborating with over 100 diverse organizations, FLASH aims to enhance America's resilience to disasters, including partnerships with well-known entities such as FEMA and the Florida Division of Emergency Management.

Their initiatives go beyond mere advocacy; FLASH seeks to empower the public with tools and knowledge that elevate construction standards and community preparedness. The signature program, 'No Code. No Confidence. – Inspect2Protect.org,' demonstrates their commitment to transparency in building codes, offering consumers the information necessary to understand the safety and resilience of their homes.

In summary, Leslie Chapman-Henderson’s recent accolade marks not only her personal achievements but also the ongoing dedication of FLASH towards creating safe, resilient communities across the United States. As the industry looks ahead, her leadership offers a blueprint for collaboration and innovation, paving the way for future advancements in disaster resilience and building safety.