NW Valley Times

Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Joshua Kena has successfully completed his long journey to earn a doctoral degree. Based at the Royal Air Force Base Lakenheath in Suffolk, England, Kena delivered his dissertation defense in the early hours and described the achievement as a crucial milestone in his life. Reflecting on his academic journey, Kena shared, “Honestly, I didn't think I was going to make it,” during a call from Kadena Air Base in Japan.

Kena left his native Ghana over two decades ago with minimal possessions and joined the U.S. Air Force, simultaneously building his family and academic career. He rose from staff sergeant to chief master sergeant while pursuing his education and faced numerous challenges. Kena noted the hectic nature of his journey, saying, “It was like I was in the midst of chaos.”

He initially began his doctoral studies at another institution but opted for Grand Canyon University (GCU) after thorough research. Kena recalled advice from a mentor: “Hey, get a degree that counts.” He wanted a university that met his requirements for accreditation and campus facilities, which GCU fulfilled.

His academic journey saw a significant turn when Dr. Kristine Quade became his chair. “She saved me,” Kena remarked, highlighting her integral role in his progress with the assistance of Dr. Michael Williams. He worked intensively over holidays to complete his dissertation under Dr. Quade’s guidance, sacrificing personal time with his family.

After a decade of effort and dedication, Kena successfully defended his dissertation, a process that began during his adolescence in Ghana, where he showed academic promise. His educational achievements include earning a bachelor’s degree in technical management from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and a master’s in acquisition management from Central Michigan University.

Kena's research focused on veterans transitioning their military skills into civilian careers, emphasizing the high standards set by military training. He believes skills like attention to detail, honed in the Air Force, are invaluable in civilian sectors.

Celebrating his 19th year in the Air Force, Kena hopes to extend his career by supporting veterans, inspired by encounters with veterans in hardship. Dr. Quade praised Kena’s resilience and suggested he would excel as a graduation speaker, saying, “He would have a strong message about resilience. It’s never giving up.”

Concluding his dissertation, Kena expressed the uniqueness of his journey, saying, “I came to America with one bag and nothing else. … Only in America is this story possible.”