Alena Maze, a brilliant mother of seven, etched her name in history by becoming the first Black woman to earn a Ph.D. in Survey Methodology.
Her remarkable journey is a testament to resilience, passion, and an unwavering commitment to academic excellence.
A Passion for Math and Health Ignites Profound Impact
“What’s a Survey Methodologist? Well I’m a Survey Statistician, so specifically, I research the math behind surveys,” Maze wrote on Facebook.
Maze’s curiosity about survey methodology stemmed from her profound interest in mathematics and health. She recognized the potential of surveys to gather crucial data, ultimately leading to better treatment courses and improved health outcomes.
Balancing Motherhood and Academics: A Remarkable Feat
While pursuing her doctorate over the last six years, Maze deftly balanced her academic pursuits with the demands of motherhood and family life.
Alongside her husband, Joseph Lee, she chronicled their multicultural blended family’s journey through a vlog on YouTube, offering an intimate glimpse into their lives.
A Trailblazer’s Journey: From Bowie State to Pioneering Heights
Maze’s academic odyssey began at Bowie State University, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in Pure Mathematics.
She then proceeded to Georgetown University, obtaining a master’s in Applied Mathematics.
However, her crowning achievement came when she successfully defended her dissertation at the University of Maryland, College Park, becoming the first African American to earn a Ph.D. in Survey Methodology.
Crediting Divine Guidance and Perseverance
“During this time, I encountered God’s love, through a divine meeting with His Holy Spirit in a way that I cannot wait to share,” she said. “His love has been enough for me to manifest anything I desire to do, be or become.”
Maze attributes her remarkable success to her unwavering faith and the guidance she received from a divine source. Her perseverance and determination to manifest her desires have propelled her to unprecedented heights.
Paving the Way for Inclusivity in Surveys
With her groundbreaking achievement, Maze hopes to contribute to greater inclusivity in surveys, ensuring that diverse perspectives and experiences are accurately represented.
Her work as a survey statistician holds the potential to shape more inclusive and impactful research, ultimately benefiting communities worldwide.
