After years of shaping educational initiatives across the country, Qena and her family have returned to Greensboro from Greenville, South Carolina—bringing with them a wealth of experience, a passion for literacy, and a deep commitment to community. Her husband’s new role as Chair of the Department of Leadership Studies & Adult Education at North Carolina A&T State University was the spark—but for Qena, this move is more than a return. It’s a new chapter, grounded in purpose. 

A proud graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and the Harvard Graduate School of Education, Qena brings more than 30 years of experience as an educator and nonprofit leader. She began her journey in the classroom, advanced into district leadership, and later served as a literacy consultant and professional learning specialist—thriving through innovative partnerships across the U.S. 

Most recently, as Senior Director of Strategic Initiatives at Public Education Partners, she led cross-sector efforts uniting community and corporate partners with the school district to promote equitable student outcomes and strengthen teacher retention.

Now back in Guilford County, Qena is eager to find the right opportunity to continue making a lasting impact on public education—pursuing her life’s work of empowering students and families, supporting educators, and strengthening communities. We’re thrilled to welcome the whole family home. Boomerangs like Qena remind us: the path forward is strongest when it’s rooted in both experience and community.