Dr. Layli Maparyan Pledges to Lead UL Into A New Era of Excellence

The newly appointed President of the University of Liberia(UL), Dr. Layli Maparyan, has vowed to usher the institution into a transformative new era. 
Speaking after a meeting with President Joseph Nyuma Boakai at the Executive Mansion on Thursday, January 9, 2025, Dr. Maparyan expressed deep gratitude for her new role and pledged to dedicate her 30 years of experience as an academic and administrator to solving the University’s challenges and elevating it as a national beacon.
 “She will lead the University of Liberia into the next era,” Dr. Maparyan stated, “and I’m going to give everything I have and learned over the last 30 years of my career as an academic and administrator to help solve the problems people have identified and make everyone feel that the University of Liberia is a beacon as the flag.”
Reflecting on her personal connection to Liberia, Dr. Maparyan described her new role as a dream fulfilled. 
She recounted her first visit to the country in 2009, highlighting her growing bond with Liberia over the years.
 “Liberia is no longer just my second home—it is now my first home,” she declared, underscoring her personal and professional commitment to the nation’s progress.
The official induction ceremony for Dr. Maparyan is slated for today, Friday, January 10, 2025  at the University’s Fendall Campus. 
The ceremony will mark the beginning of her tenure as she takes over leadership from outgoing President Dr. Al-Hassan Conteh.
President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, who met with Dr. Maparyan earlier in the day, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to advancing education in Liberia. 
He welcomed Dr. Maparyan warmly, describing her appointment as a pivotal moment for the institution.
 “Liberia is not new to you, and we are excited to have you at the helm of this historic institution,” President Boakai remarked.
He expressed confidence that her leadership would steer the University of Liberia toward transformative growth and align its goals with national priorities, particularly in education and workforce development under the Government’s ARREST Agenda.
The President also praised the UL Board of Trustees for their dedication and the integrity of the selection process. 
 “The Board’s work was thorough, and we appreciate the diligence it took to reach this point,” he said, commending their unanimous approval of Dr. Maparyan.
Grand Kru County Senator Numene T.H. Bartekwa, Chairman of the UL Board of Trustees, presented Dr. Maparyan to President Boakai, expressing his confidence in her ability to address longstanding challenges at the university. 
Senator Bartekwa described her as a visionary leader with a proven track record of academic excellence and institutional development.
He noted that it adhered to international standards and brought forward a highly qualified leader who could tackle the pressing issues facing the University.
 “Dr. Maparyan’s expertise and dedication will undoubtedly take the University of Liberia to new heights,” Dr. Conteh remarked.
Dr. Maparyan acknowledged the weight of expectations on her leadership and pledged to work collaboratively with faculty, students, and stakeholders to address the institution’s challenges. 
Her focus includes improving infrastructure, enhancing academic standards, and fostering an environment where innovation thrives.
She emphasized the need to make the University a national beacon of hope and a catalyst for Liberia’s development, drawing from her extensive experience in higher education leadership.
The special convocation at the Fendall Campus will be a moment of celebration and reflection as Dr. Maparyan officially takes on her role. 
The University community and the nation at large are expected to gather in solidarity and hope for a brighter future under her leadership.
As the University prepares to resume normal operations on Monday, January 13, 2025, students, faculty, and alumni are optimistic about the changes Dr. Maparyan will bring. 
Many have already expressed their enthusiasm for her vision and dedication.
With Dr. Maparyan’s arrival, Liberia’s flagship institution of higher learning appears poised to embark on a transformative journey, reaffirming its position as a cornerstone of the nation’s progress.