D.C. Safety Manager Receives National Occupational Safety and Health Award

ORANGE BEACH, Ala. — Columbia Southern University (CSU), a leader in online safety education, recently awarded its annual Outstanding Safety Professional of the Year Award to Wyatt Bradbury of Washington, D.C.

CSU’s occupational safety and health faculty members selected Bradbury from a pool of more than 300 nominations. Bradbury, who is earning his bachelor’s degree in occupational safety and health, is the president of the National Capital chapter of the American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP). He also serves his community as a lifeguard instructor.

“I am honored that Columbia Southern University has chosen me to represent them in this way. I hope to inspire other professionals to continue to develop as leaders and expand their understanding of their craft,” said Bradbury. “I also hope to challenge experienced professionals to begin the transfer of knowledge that is necessary for the next generation of OSH professionals.”

Bradbury is an active contributor to occupational safety and health conferences and industry publications, including the ASSP’s “Professional Safety Journal.”

“Aside from intergenerational communication and mentoring, I like to write about opportunities for growth I see within the profession,” said Bradbury. “Our industry is at the intersection of engineering and human ability. I try to capture that intersection in my work.”

The 2019 runner-up is Cheryl Ratcliff of Azle, Texas. Ratcliff, a regional environmental health and safety manager for Novolex, was unaware that a co-worker nominated her for the award. She is also seeking a bachelor’s degree in occupational safety and health.

“Since childhood, my dream was to work in a profession that could have a positive influence on others,” explained Ratcliff. “Early on, that was professions such as police officer, firefighter, counselor and even nursing. It turns out that I have worked my entire career in manufacturing, and when the opportunity arose to move into occupational safety and health, I jumped. I have a passion for safety and enjoy interacting with all levels in the organization to ensure a safe work environment.”

The Outstanding Safety Professional Award was established by the university to recognize National Safety Month, observed annually in June, and to celebrate its occupational safety and health students and graduates for their commitments to safety, professionalism and their accomplishments.

CSU salutes Bradbury, Ratcliff and the other students and graduates who work to protect the lives of their colleagues.