Dedication Beyond Distance: Doctoral Student Advances While Serving Overseas

When U.S. Navy sailor and doctoral student, Roque “Bubba” Ramirez, reached the critical milestone in his Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership (Ed.D) program of defending his dissertation proposal, he was thousands of miles from home, actively serving in the Middle East during Operation Epic Fury. Rather than pause his academic progress, Ramirez and his dissertation committee at UMass Global worked together to design a flexible, fully online solution that allowed him to meet every requirement of this high‑stakes milestone while honoring the realities of military duty.

Because Ramirez could not join a traditional live Zoom defense due to operational demands and unpredictable connectivity, his committee developed an asynchronous, email‑based process that preserved both rigor and structure. Ramirez recorded and submitted a concise video presentation of his dissertation proposal, then worked with his chair and committee to answer questions and provide clarifications remotely. Committee members independently reviewed his presentation, sent follow‑up questions, and later convened to discuss his responses and determine approval, ensuring the same high academic standards of the university while adapting the format to his unique circumstances.

His dissertation, An Explanatory Mixed-Method Study Identifying and Describing the Perceived Impact of Five Disruptive Career Skills on Military Women’s Career Advancement to an Executive Leadership Position, reflects both scholarly depth and a deep commitment to making a meaningful impact for military women leaders. 

“Bubba’s perseverance is truly remarkable. To engage at this level of scholarship while actively serving overseas speaks to his character, his commitment, and his leadership,” says Dr. Marylou Wilson, Adjunct Professor of Education for the Ed.D. program. “He represents the very best of what we hope for in our doctoral candidates.”

For Ramirez, the experience of preparing and defending his proposal while deployed demanded careful time management, clear communication, and an unwavering sense of purpose — plus the support of a university that knows education can and should fit around real life. 

Let’s explore more about how this experience challenged him, ways UMass Global stepped up to meet him where he was, and what he gained along the way. 

Q1. Tell us about the process of preparing your dissertation proposal while serving overseas. What did that look like in practice?

Ramirez: It was definitely a demanding and complex process, particularly given the heightened operational environment in the Middle East. I submitted my proposal materials in advance, and when it came time to present, I coordinated closely with my dissertation chair and committee to identify a feasible window, ultimately delivering my presentation while transiting between duty stations. Rather than delay my progress, we worked collaboratively to find a practical solution that allowed me to meet both my academic and military obligations.

Q2. Tell us about your experience defending your dissertation proposal while serving overseas — the process, the challenges, and what you gained from it. 

Ramirez: My proposal defense took place during Operation Epic Fury, a time marked by significant operational demands. I was determined not to forgo the opportunity to advance academically, even while fulfilling my military responsibilities. Balancing these dual commitments reinforced my sense of purpose and resilience, as both responsibilities were equally important to me.

Q3. What was most challenging about balancing this proposal preparation and defense with your military duties and personal life?

Ramirez: The most significant challenges were navigating time zone differences and limited connectivity, both of which complicated communication and scheduling. My military duties always take precedence, and operational requirements can be unpredictable. The experience required me to maintain focus and discipline, relying on the resilience instilled through my military training to continue striving toward my academic goal of earning a doctoral degree, despite external constraints.

Q4. What did you do differently to overcome these challenges — whether in your planning, communication, time management, or mindset — as you prepared and delivered a recorded proposal defense instead of a live session?

I really placed a strong emphasis on clear and effective communication. I ensured that my presentation was well organized, concise, and accessible, particularly given the limitation of a recorded format. Additionally, I maintained consistent communication with my dissertation chair and committee, keeping them informed of my operational circumstances. Time management was critical. I deliberately set aside dedicated periods to focus on my proposal, even within a demanding schedule. Drawing from my military experience, I adapted to changing conditions, remained flexible, and applied a problem-solving mindset to successfully complete my defense.

Q5. What support, resources, or people at UMass Global helped you move forward and make this “out-of-the-box” defense possible?

Ramirez: I am deeply grateful for the unwavering support of my dissertation chair, Dr. Marilou Ryder, and my committee members, Dr. Marylou Wilson and Dr. Eva Hedger. Their willingness to accommodate my unique circumstances and facilitate an alternative defense format made this achievement possible. Their guidance, understanding, and encouragement was invaluable throughout this process. 

Q6. What changed for you because of this experience and how has it shaped your plans after graduation?

Ramirez: This experience reinforced my belief that opportunities are not limited by circumstances but are shaped by determination and support. It strengthened my confidence, resilience, and leadership abilities. Much like in the military, the relationships formed during this journey became a source of strength and motivation. My dissertation chair and committee members became more than academic mentors — they became a support system akin to family. This experience has inspired me to continue pursuing growth and to approach future opportunities with confidence and determination as I prepare for graduation.

Q7. Why does this experience matter to you personally, and what would you tell other military-affiliated students who are unsure whether they can pursue a doctoral program while serving?

Ramirez: This experience represents determination, resilience, and the importance of a strong support system. I would encourage other military-affiliated students to pursue their academic goals with confidence knowing that with perseverance and the right support, they are absolutely achievable. 

Moving Forward With Purpose

Looking back, Ramirez describes this milestone as a powerful lesson in what is possible when determination and support align. At UMass Global, our flexible, online programs are designed to support working professionals across the globe, at every step, and wherever our students are in life. 

Interested in learning more about this program?

Visit our Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership page for more information. 

Have a student story of your own?

We’d love to hear it! You can submit it using this form.