Leah Stiles is a trailblazer in both military service and nonprofit leadership, committed to transforming personal struggle into collective strength.
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She is a retired U.S. Navy Senior Chief with more than 20 years of service. During her military career, Leah navigated a hidden battle with an eating disorder—an experience that shaped her determination to break the silence and reduce stigma for others in uniform.
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Building on that lived experience, Leah founded SEA WAVES (Support, Education, Awareness, Wellness, Advocacy, Validation, Eating Disorders, and Suicide Prevention)—the only nonprofit dedicated solely to addressing eating disorders within the military and veteran community.

She leads national initiatives including the MEDAL Training Program, which equips military leaders and healthcare providers to recognize and respond to eating disorders, and The Lighthouse Project, which integrates self-care, mentorship, and suicide prevention to foster resilience and connection.
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Leah is also an author, speaker, and advocate driving systemic change through policy, education, and storytelling. A trusted voice, she shares her expertise at military leadership forums, professional conferences, and national coalitions.
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Her message is simple: Need a light; be a light.
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To learn more about SEA WAVES visit: https://sea-waves.org/