Ayanna Madison-Ross, DBA-ABD, MBA, CLSSGB, DFMC2
Ayanna Madison-Ross, DBA-ABD, MBA, CLSSGB, DFMC2, is a highly accomplished Financial Management Analyst with the U.S. Navy, bringing over 15 years of experience in federal financial operations, budgeting, and resource management. Currently pursuing her Doctor of Business Administration in Financial Management at National University, Ayanna combines advanced academic training with hands-on expertise gained through service in the U.S. Navy, U.S. Coast Guard, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. Her professional journey reflects a steadfast commitment to integrity, leadership, and public service.
Throughout her career, Ayanna has earned numerous distinctions, including being named Employee of the Year in 2023 and receiving a $3,000 scholarship from the Society of Financial Management. A dedicated lifelong learner, she holds a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt – Level II certification and a Defense Financial Management Certification (Level II). She is an active member of several professional organizations, including the American Legion, Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), American Society of Military Comptrollers, Society of Financial Management, and Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity. Her mentors — Leanne Johnson, Capt. Harvey McDonald, and her mother, Lt. Rene Bazzelle — have greatly influenced her leadership style and professional growth.
Beyond her career, Ayanna is deeply involved in her community, volunteering at local food banks and supporting the Heart Association of America. She finds joy and balance through line dancing, reading, and cheering for the Detroit Lions. One of her proudest career accomplishments came during her tenure with the USDA (2016–2018), where she played a key role in securing grants and funding to assist with the Flint water crisis. Reflecting on her journey, Ayanna shares that her greatest challenge has been knowing when to stop, yet her perseverance and purpose-driven mindset continue to define her path toward excellence and service.
• CLSSGB – Certified Lean Six Sigma Green Belt
• DFMC2 – Defense Financial Management Certification, Level 2
• Navy Vet – Navy Veteran
• FMA – Navy – Financial Management Analyst, U.S. Navy
• DBA- Financial Management
• Bachelor of Arts (BA), Pre-Law Studies
• MBA, Business Administration / Human Resources Management
• Bachelor of Arts (BA), Business Administration and Human Resources Management
• Summa Cum Laude – MBA and BA in Business
• Magna Cum Laude - BA in Pre-Law Studies
• Golden Key International Honour Society – National University Chapter
• Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity – National University
• National Honor Society – National University
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my strong drive, the discipline and values I gained from growing up in a military family, and the guidance of exceptional mentors who have shaped my personal and professional growth.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to remember that work will always be there—you don’t have to do everything at once. Prioritizing self-care is essential, because maintaining balance allows you to perform at your best and sustain long-term success.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this field is to stand confident in your abilities and never let the lack of representation intimidate you. Even if there aren’t many women around you, remember that your perspective, skills, and voice have immense value—don’t hesitate to make your mark and lead with purpose.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced in my career is knowing when to stop. In a field that demands precision, accountability, and constant readiness, it can be difficult to set boundaries and step back. However, I’ve learned that maintaining balance and prioritizing well-being not only strengthens performance but also creates opportunities for clearer thinking, better leadership, and long-term growth.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are transparency, open communication, and ambition. I believe being honest and clear in all interactions fosters trust and collaboration, while ambition drives growth, learning, and the pursuit of meaningful goals.
Locations
US Navy
Elizabeth City, NC 27909