By Christian Appleton
Maryland, Liberia – Six promising students from William V.S. Tubman University (WVSTU) are set to make history as they prepare for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to participate in the prestigious Study of the U.S. Institutes (SUSIs) program in the United States.
Coordinated by the Center for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at the University, the selected students will depart in early 2025 for the academic and leadership development program aimed at enhancing their understanding of the U.S. while refining their leadership skills.
The students selected for the program include Brenda Y. Wisner, College of Management and Administration, majoring in Banking and Financing;
Enniamene P. Gbarclay, College of Education, majoring in Secondary Education, English Literature and Comfort K. Lamine, College of Engineering and Technology, majoring in Civil Engineering.
Also selected are Evelyn E. Dennis, College of Public Health; Eunice Q. Gebur, College of Education, majoring in Early Childhood Development, and Esther Alfreda H. Youty, College of Arts and Science, majoring in Environmental Science
The Director of the Center for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at WVSTU, Mrs. Ade Elliott Ledlum, who made the disclosure during a press briefing on November 4, 2024, at her office said “We are incredibly grateful for this opportunity.”
Having our university represented on the global stage, the Mrs. Ledlum said, is a dream come true, expressing gratitude to the benefactors on behalf of the President/CEO of the University, Dr. Olu Q. Menjay. ”I extend our thanks and appreciation to our partners for their collaboration in making this possible.” she said.
Mrs. Ledlum averred that despite the university’s location in the rural part of Liberia, the institution has long aspired to be part of such a prestigious program, but had often faced challenges due to limited access to international opportunities.
“We’ve been pushing for this for some time, but the location of our university often made it difficult for us to be considered,” she explained.
However, she said the University is now thrilled that its students will have the chance to represent the university, Liberia, and Africa as a whole.
The SUSIs program for student leaders is a short-term, intensive academic program designed to give undergraduate students a deeper understanding of the United States, while enhancing their leadership skills.
The program brings together 20 students from around the world for a four-week academic residency, which includes seminars, group discussions, site visits, and community service projects. Should circumstances allow, participants will also engage in a one-week study tour in the U.S.
For the selected students, this opportunity represents more than just academic growth; it is a gateway to broader horizons. As none of the six students had any previous travel experience outside Liberia, they expressed excitement about the chance to expand their perspectives of global understanding.
“This opportunity will help us gain valuable exposure and knowledge that we can bring back home to impact others in our communities,” said Brenda Y. Wisner, one of the participants.
The SUSI program places a particular emphasis on diversity and leadership, with a focus on students who are highly motivated, active in their communities, and possess stronger academic records.
The program also aims to empower participants from historically underserved and disadvantaged backgrounds, offering them an opportunity to engage with other young leaders from across the globe.
The Albright Young Women Leaders Program on Economic Empowerment, one of the programs within the SUSI framework, is particularly notable.
Hosted by the University of Delaware, it covers topics like community-based solutions, women in the workforce, sustainable economic development, and leadership strategies. Participants in this program will also visit landmarks like the United Nations in New York City and Gettysburg National Military Park.
For the students selected, the journey represents not only a personal milestone but also a chance to contribute to Liberia’s development and global engagement. “We are all eager to learn and grow, and we will use this experience to positively impact our peers and communities back home,” said Comfort K. Lamine, one of the participants.
The SUSIs program seeks applicants who demonstrate leadership potential, academic excellence, and a commitment to community service. Additionally, candidates must be between the ages of 18 and 25, with at least one semester remaining in their undergraduate studies, and have little or no prior travel experience outside their home country. The program also encourages participation from women, minorities, and individuals with disabilities.
As William V.S. Tubman University prepares to send its first group of students to this prestigious program, the administration and students alike are filled with anticipation and hope. The opportunity stands as a testament to the transformative potential of education and international collaboration.
Visited 2 times, 2 visit(s) today
