Former First Lady of Virginia, Lisa Collis

As First Lady, Lisa Collis focused on bringing a brighter future to families and children in Virginia. Collis has done a significant amount of work in various efforts to prevent child abuse in the U.S.

Lisa Collis is the wife of Mark R. Warner, Virginia’s 69th governor.  Before meeting and marrying Warner in 1989, she graduated from the University of Virginia with a degree in Biology.  Collis joined the Peace Corps after graduating, however when the mission was canceled she decided to get a master’s degree in public health at the University of Texas. As a graduate student, she was able to study iron deficiency and nutrition in Guatemala.  Her studies helped improve public health for migrant workers.  Following her master’s degree, she worked for the World Bank developing AIDS policy for Third World nations.  Her experience and passion in public health followed her to the Executive Mansion.

As First Lady, Lisa Collis focused on bringing a brighter future to families and children in Virginia.  Collis has done a significant amount of work in various efforts to prevent child abuse in the U.S.  She and her husband founded the Collis-Warner Foundation, which supports private and state initiatives to prevent child abuse and programs that aid low-income children.  

Fun Fact: Lisa Collis is the first governor’s wife in Virginia to keep her maiden name.

Don’t forget to stop by and take a look at the Virginia First Ladies Portraits Exihbit!!