By: Naneka A. Hoffman
Monrovia, Liberia; June 27, 2025 – In a significant move to promote gender equality and women’s empowerment, particularly among economically disadvantaged women and girls, Dr. Layli Maparyan, President of the University of Liberia (UL), has donated US$10,000 to the West Point Women for Health and Development Organization (WPWHDO).
The donation ceremony took place recently at the WPWHDO office in West Point, Montserrado County.
During the event, Dr. Maparyan presented a symbolic, oversized check, reflecting the US$10,000 contribution. The presentation followed immediately after WPWHDO received a deposit alert confirming the funds had been transferred to its account.
This generous contribution was made possible through a Legacy Grant from the Global Fund for Women (GFW). Dr. Maparyan, who previously served as Chair of the GFW Board before her appointment as UL President, was given the opportunity to allocate the one-time grant. She chose WPWHDO as the recipient because its mission closely aligns with that of GFW.
The Global Fund for Women is a feminist funding organization that has, for nearly four decades, supported movements for gender justice through flexible and empowering grants. Its vision is a world in which power and privilege are transformed into equity and equality for all.
Dr. Maparyan commended Madam Nelly Cooper, founder of WPWHDO, for her steadfast commitment to the women of West Point.
“She is dedicated to the women at West Point. She’s been here. I’ve known her for 16 years she’s been doing this work for more than 20. And I said, this is the kind of person and organization I need to support,” Dr. Maparyan stated.
She added that she felt compelled to help Madam Cooper continue her work and to demonstrate her own love and solidarity with the women of West Point.
“That’s why I chose to give my Legacy Grant from the Global Fund for Women. And little did I know I would be back in Liberia as President of the University of Liberia,” she said with emotion.
Dr. Maparyan also emphasized her broader mission as UL President to reach and uplift communities throughout Liberia.
She announced the creation of a new Office for Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment at the University of Liberia, which she said would serve as a platform to support and expand gender-focused initiatives across the country.
In response, Madam Nelly Cooper expressed deep appreciation for the timely donation, describing it as “heaven-sent,” especially given recent challenges.
“We have had several donors supporting us, but we’ve also lost many grants in the past year. This donation came at just the right time,” Cooper said. “It was like a miracle. You did well, and we want to say thank you.”
She confirmed that the grant had been deposited in WPWHDO’s account and humorously urged Dr. Maparyan to consider adopting West Point Women as her new alma mater.
The occasion concluded with a lively cultural performance, as traditional singers and dancers honored Dr. Maparyan for her leadership, generosity, and continued commitment to women’s empowerment. Editing by Jonathan Browne
