Cookeville native and Director of the Putnam County Health Department, Lisa Bumbalough, has dedicated most of her adult life to helping the community live longer, happier, and healthier lives. Her public health career spans 30 years, including the past 17 years serving as director of the PCHD. In 2022, her impact was formally recognized when she was named one of Cookeville Lifestyle’s Most Influential People.
“Making a positive impact in the community is what I love most about my role,” Bumbalough shared. She strives daily to live out the health department’s mission “to protect, promote, and improve the health of people in the community.”
One of the most defining moments of her career came during the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020. At a time when fear, uncertainty, and misinformation were widespread, Bumbalough prioritized clear communication and access to critical resources like testing and vaccines. “Getting that information out to the community in an easy-to-understand manner was very difficult in the middle of COVID,” she recalled. “I prayed every day. Our team and community truly came together during that time.”
As protocols shifted rapidly, Bumbalough helped guide the county through constant change while balancing public concern and scientific guidance. “We listened to everyone’s opinions, then moved forward with our mission and duty at hand,” she said. “We had to work through fear and confusion to navigate the delivery of vaccines and testing. Barriers were being thrown at us every day. We prioritized being as respectful as possible of each individual, and we truly did our best.”
Her influence extends well beyond the pandemic. Under her leadership, the Putnam County Health Department continues to expand programs focused on prevention, education, and long-term wellness. Bumbalough works behind the scenes to create opportunities that empower residents to take control of their health, including free classes on lowering blood pressure, cooking at home, and managing blood sugar for those diagnosed with diabetes. She has also partnered with local school systems to help children become more active before the school day begins and collaborated with local businesses to support healthier lifestyles among adults.
When asked what advice she would offer the Cookeville community, Bumbalough keeps it simple and heartfelt: “Pay it forward. Always be thankful for what you have because others may not be as fortunate. Just love each other, be kind, humble, and give back to the community.”
— by Amber Summer, photos by Katelyn Steakley
