Dr. Golala Arya

Dr. Golala Arya is an environmental compliance and public health leader whose career reflects the powerful impact that refugees and immigrants can have on American society through service, education, and civic engagement. Arriving in the United States as a refugee during her teenage years, she embraced the opportunities provided through education, mentorship, and public institutions to build a successful career dedicated to serving the nation.

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Dr. Arya earned a Ph.D. in Environmental Chemistry and has devoted nearly a decade to federal service with the U.S. Department of the Interior and the U.S. Navy. Throughout her career, she has worked to protect human health, natural resources, and environmental integrity while leading complex compliance programs, managing multidisciplinary teams, and serving as a subject matter expert on hazardous materials and emerging contaminants, including Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS).

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Her professional journey demonstrates how empowering refugees and immigrants to fully integrate into American society strengthens government institutions, enhances environmental stewardship, and creates lasting benefits for communities across the country. Through both her technical expertise and lived experience, Dr. Arya brings a unique perspective to public service and leadership.

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Deeply committed to service, integrity, and the rule of law, Dr. Arya continues to dedicate her work to advancing missions that protect and serve the American people while inspiring future generations of immigrants and refugees to pursue meaningful careers and contribute positively to their communities.