Student Uses Degree to Better Family and Career

Senior planner returned to classroom after being out of school for 25 years...

When Kenneth Gilliam sought a new job after the plant where he managed manufacturing operations closed, he pursued an advanced degree. After more than 20 years on the job, he needed a master’s degree to obtain a similar management-level position with a new employer.

His professional advancement, along with a desire to provide for his family, motivated him to enroll in Strayer University’s MBA program. In addition to advancing his career, Gilliam was honored as the Outstanding Graduate Student during Strayer University’s Oct. 17 commencement ceremony in Norfolk, Va.

The Outstanding Graduate Student Award recognizes a graduate student who maintained a 4.0 grade point average and who made positive contributions to his or her local community.

Gilliam is a senior planner with Northrop Grumman Newport News, where he is the liaison between Newport News Ship Building, the U.S. Navy and outside contractors who perform maintenance on the USS Carl Vinson. He also works part time for Anheuser-Busch.

“I was a little nervous when I took my first course because I graduated with my bachelor’s degree in 1980,” says Gilliam. “Even though it has been a tough four years juggling two jobs, my volunteer coaching duties and family responsibilities, I am glad I decided to complete my MBA degree.”