Sukeena Stephens, Ph.D.

Sukeena Stephens, a federal law enforcement official with over 26 years of experience, is a prominent Federal Air Marshal Service (FAMS) leader. She currently serves as the Liaison to the Ombudsman. Her commitment to fostering inclusivity is evident in her success, including a 50% increase in attendance at diversity conferences and the addition of two new conferences to the organization’s portfolio. Previously, Dr. Stephens led the Visible Intermodal Prevention and Response Program (VIPR), where she supervised law enforcement officers and civilians in the agency’s uniform division as an Assistant Supervisory Air Marshal. In her role as Logistics Lead for the Transportation Security Administration’s Critical Incident Management Group (CIMG), she collaborated with incident managers to oversee logistics, coordinate operations, and support affected areas. Her leadership has been instrumental in managing responses to Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria and the nationwide COVID-19 emergency response across over 400 airports and 25 field offices. In addition to her federal service, Dr. Stephens is deeply engaged in her community and the education sector. As Chairwoman of the Virginia Department of Education Career & Technical Education Advisory Committee, she champions initiatives to help students enhance their skills and prepare for the workforce. Her community service includes volunteering with the Fredericksburg Area Food Bank and leading a macaroni and cheese drive that collected over 1,000 boxes to support families experiencing food insecurity during Thanksgiving. She is an active member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., and Jack and Jill of America, Inc., where she played a key role in chartering both chapters in Fredericksburg, VA. Dr. Stephens has a doctorate in Public Policy and Administration, specializing in Homeland Security Policy and Coordination. She also holds a master’s degree in Public Administration with an emphasis on the Inspector General program from John Jay College of Criminal Justice. Additionally, she obtained a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion certificate from Cornell University and completed the Chief Risk Officer Program at George Mason University. Originally from New York, she is the proud mother of two sons. In her free time, she enjoys reading and traveling.