The University of Liberia (UL), the nation’s foremost state-owned higher education institution, has warmly congratulated Professor Layli Maparyan on her appointment as its 16th President. President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s historic decision has been embraced as a defining moment for UL, promising a renewed focus on academic excellence and transformative leadership.
The announcement has sparked widespread enthusiasm across UL’s faculty, staff, alums, and student body. Dr. Moses Moroe Zinnah, a distinguished professor at the William R. Tolbert, Jr. College of Agriculture and Forestry, described the appointment as timely and significant in light of the university’s current challenges and opportunities.
Professor Maparyan is an accomplished academic leader with extensive experience in teaching, research, and administration, particularly in the United States. Her background makes her well-suited to guide UL toward realizing its mission of innovation, community service, and educational excellence.
In his congratulatory message, Dr. Zinnah expressed confidence in her leadership, emphasizing her qualifications and extensive experience as invaluable assets to the institution. “Based on your educational qualifications and extensive experience in teaching, research, and administration, I am confident that UL will soar under your leadership, wisdom, and guidance,” he stated.
Despite being one of the two finalists recommended to President Boakai for the position, Dr. Zinnah displayed humility and professionalism in his response to the decision. He fully supported Professor Maparyan and offered to work alongside her to advance the university’s development.
“Please know that I will avail myself to working in any specific role(s) that you deem necessary during your tenure at the UL,” he wrote. Dr. Zinnah also expressed his eagerness to collaborate on strategies that could lead to lasting transformation at UL.
This gesture of unity from Dr. Zinnah underscores a shared commitment to prioritizing UL’s progress over individual ambition. It also reflects a collaborative spirit expected to define Professor Maparyan’s leadership, fostering a sense of collective purpose within the university community.
Professor Maparyan takes office at a critical juncture for the University of Liberia. The institution faces several challenges, including limited resources, aging infrastructure, and a growing demand for improved academic standards. These hurdles, however, present opportunities for innovation and progress, and her appointment has raised hopes for meaningful change.
Her leadership comes as UL strives to reinforce its reputation as a center of excellence in higher education in Liberia and across the West African sub-region. Stakeholders are optimistic that her vision and expertise will inspire initiatives to expand academic programs, enhance research, and forge stronger international partnerships.
The university community eagerly anticipates her formal induction, which will begin a new era. Professor Maparyan’s leadership has already sparked discussions about the potential for groundbreaking reforms, including modernized academic offerings and strengthened institutional capacity.
As the new custodian of UL’s legacy, symbolized by its motto “Lux-in-Tenebris” (Light in Darkness), Professor Maparyan carries the aspirations of countless students, faculty, and alumni. Her presidency is expected to strengthen UL’s role in shaping Liberia’s development, fostering critical thinking, and preparing the nation’s next generation of leaders.
