Dr A. Jose Jones is one of the earliest African-Americans to become a certified diver. His exploits and those of the diving clubs he has founded in a previously segregated sport have received international media attention and many prestigious awards. Pathway to Ph.D. is an instructional memoir for those interested in the "how" of humble beginnings to international fame stories. Beginning with his family roots in Washington, D.C., Dr. Jones lays out a roadmap for using the pillars of education, sport, and, through it all, family to forge a successful career.

Dr. Jones' success has been built upon relationships with many dynamic individuals. From his uncle's love of botany, to his cousin's instructions on navigating the college educational system, to the military, and later tutelage under world-famous martial arts instructor Jhoon Rhee, Dr. Jones gives a fascinating retelling of how his ready, listening ear and willingness to achieve under master mentorship have been crucial to his unique and stellar career.

A master collaborator and self-starter, Dr. Jones has forged deep ties with divers all over the globe and been a magnet for once isolated minority divers to form strong, championship coalitions and teams. Despite his obvious innate talents and intelligence, Dr. Jones provides a strong and compelling narrative on the value of helping others with the skills and advantages we have been able to achieve.

Dr. Jones' collaborations resulted in the creation of the National Association of Black Scuba Divers, whose purpose is to foster camaraderie among African American divers and to address the unique problems and concerns of the African-American community. Since the founding of NABS in 1991, the organization has seen the addition of over 3,000 members across the country and internationally.