In 2026, WBENC proudly continues its tradition of honoring exceptional women business owners through the WBE Star Award. Selected by their Regional Partner Organizations, the 14 WBE Stars exemplify this year’s theme of IMPACT, demonstrating meaningful influence across their businesses, communities, and industries through leadership, excellence, and service.
Throughout the year, the 2026 WBE Stars will be featured on the WBENC website, culminating in their celebration at the 2026 WBENC National Conference, June 15–18, in Salt Lake City, Utah, where thousands gathered to do business and honor the strength and impact of the WBENC Network.
Meet Lisa Casiello, CEO of CD & Associates, Inc., with the Women’s Business Enterprise Center East Regional Partner Organization. Lisa Casiello is a respected industry leader, business owner, and trusted advisor with more than 40 years of experience in the Pharmaceutical, Biotechnology, and Life Sciences industries. As the founder and president of CD & Associates, Inc., she helps organizations bring complex projects to life through expertise in design, construction, and project management. Her practical, results-driven approach enables clients to achieve their goals with confidence, precision, and seamless execution.
Lisa is a tenacious and thoughtful leader, with a deep commitment to giving back. She actively mentors other business owners and champions causes that advance literacy and STEM, mental health, food and housing equity, and careers within the trades. Additionally, Lisa supports Girls Inc., which creates opportunities to prepare girls to realize their full leadership potential. A grounded leader, Lisa elevates those around her and cheers for the success of others.
Get inspired by Lisa’s insights!
Trusted by industry leaders, CD & Associates, Inc. (CDA) provides total project services tailored specifically to the Pharmaceutical, Technology, and Life Science Industries. Dedicated to value-driven performance, CDA offers services from project inception to completion, leveraging extensive industry connections throughout.
View the CD & Associates, Inc. Economic Impact Story!
Wisdom from WBE Star, Lisa Casiello
How do you define “IMPACT” in your own words?
Impact means turning insight into action that improves lives, strengthens communities, and delivers measurable results for our clients.
It is the responsibility we carry to lead with integrity, accountability, and purpose to deliver high quality results in everything we do.
What suggestions would you like to share with business leaders looking to expand their IMPACT?
Recognize that exceptional service and innovative leadership come from engaged, fulfilled team members. Build a team and empower them to lead, grow and thrive – within the workplace, throughout your industry, and in your communities.
For business owners and leaders who are looking to accelerate their “IMPACT,” what key advice or actionable steps would you recommend for them to implement today?
- Always be open to change – be resilient.
- Look for ways to do what others aren’t doing.
- Listen closely, learn continuously.
- Advocate for your clients’ best interest and long-term success by helping them achieve their strategic and financial goals.
- Deliver what you promise.
- Become your client’s “go-to.”
What key lessons have you learned from mentors and peers as a business owner?
- There is always something to be learned no matter how long you have been in business.
- Be open to new ideas and thinking outside the box.
- Surround yourself with individuals who share your values & goals and always encourage you to be the best version of yourself.
- Create a network of trusted friends & advisors at all phases of your career.
Looking ahead, what legacy of impact do you hope to leave in the business community?
I hope my legacy of impact will be proof of being a trusted leader and partner grounded in collaboration, accountability, and shared purpose with our clients and vendors alike.
