Monrovia — Less than 72 hours after her historic inauguration as the 16th President of the University of Liberia (UL), Prof. Dr. Layli Maparyan began her tenure with a packed schedule, including meetings and a comprehensive tour of the Capitol Hill campus.
On her first day in office, Dr. Maparyan visited the iconic Firestone Quadrangle (FQ) Building, constructed in the 1960s by the global rubber giant Firestone. Originally designed as a chemical testing lab, the building now serves as classrooms for undergraduate students. Her visit aimed to gain firsthand insight into the university’s facilities as a new academic semester commenced.
During her tour, Dr. Maparyan interacted with students, sharing her enthusiasm for the university’s future. She took selfies, shook hands, cracked jokes, and offered words of encouragement to students attending classes on their first day.
Her tour of the FQ Building included stops at the UL clinic, the University of Liberia Faculty Association (ULFA) office, and the Office of Student Affairs. She also visited the Student Centre, which houses the Interim Students Leadership Office.
In addition, Dr. Maparyan assessed other key facilities, including Tubman Hall, where she evaluated the teaching and learning environments. At the Resource Centre for Disabilities and Support Services and Alternative Learning (RCDSSAL), she met with Director Saydah Williamson Taylor and her team. Dr. Maparyan reiterated her commitment to addressing the needs of students with disabilities, a promise she made during her inaugural speech.
Her packed itinerary also included separate meetings with USAID Director Jim Wright, senior university staff, Vice President for University Relations Cllr. Norris L. Tweah, and Dr. Lizzie King alongside Higher Education for Conservation (HECA) Grant Fellows.
Dr. Maparyan concluded her day by addressing students during the orientation of the Louis Arthur Grimes School of Law. She commended the law students for their dedication to learning and encouraged them as future leaders of Liberia.
Dr. Maparyan’s inauguration took place on January 10, 2025, at the UL Fendall campus, where she officially succeeded Acting President Prof. Dr. Al-Hassan Conteh.
Her proactive approach and focus on understanding the university’s strengths and challenges highlight her readiness to lead UL into a new chapter of academic excellence and inclusion.
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