Published: February 6, 2026
MONROVIA — The University of Liberia (UL) will formally begin a year-long observance of its 75th anniversary on Feb. 15, using the milestone to reflect on its historical role while advancing institutional reforms, alumni engagement and fundraising efforts aimed at strengthening the country’s flagship public university.
Founded as Liberia College in 1862 and rechartered as a university in 1951, UL has grown from a small elite institution into Liberia’s largest public university, serving nearly 30,000 students across multiple campuses and academic disciplines.
Today, the university faces mounting pressure to expand access, improve infrastructure and modernize academic delivery—challenges that university officials say the anniversary year will directly confront.
Anniversary Theme, Purpose Outlined
UL President Layli Maparyan outlined the anniversary agenda Thursday during a briefing at the Nathaniel Cassell Building, describing the celebration as both commemorative and forward-looking.
Under the theme “From Our Foundation to Our Future: UL@75,” Maparyan said the anniversary is intended to reposition the university to better meet national development needs while reaffirming its historic mission.
“This moment is not just about honoring where we have come from,” she said. “It is about preparing the University of Liberia for the future it must serve.”
Reform Agenda Anchors Celebration
Maparyan said the university is entering a new phase guided by a reform framework she described as the “Five E’s”—education, effectiveness, efficiency, excellence and ethics.
She said the framework will shape reforms in teaching and learning, institutional management and accountability, as the university seeks to improve quality while managing growing enrollment and limited public funding.
UL remains Liberia’s most accessible public university and continues to supply a significant share of the country’s professionals in government, law, health, education, media and civil society.
Founders Day to Open Activities
Anniversary activities will officially begin on Founders Day, Feb. 15, with a multi-faith thanksgiving service at the Capitol Hill campus.
The opening week will feature student-centered programs, faculty and staff recognition events, community and partner engagements, and an alumni homecoming designed to reconnect graduates with the institution’s development priorities.
Alumni, Culture, Fundraising Events Planned
One of the cultural highlights will be a joint performance by the UL Alumni Chorus and the university’s resident chorus, with alumni traveling from abroad to participate in a fundraising concert scheduled for Feb. 23.
A President’s Ball later in the month is expected to bring together alumni, development partners and supporters to mobilize financial and institutional backing for UL’s growth and infrastructure needs.
Logo Unveiled, Year-Long Calendar Ahead
Maparyan also unveiled the official 75th anniversary logo, selected through a nationwide design competition. She said the symbol reflects UL’s legacy of knowledge, service and national contribution.
The anniversary will be observed throughout the year with academic forums, cultural programs and alumni-driven initiatives aimed at strengthening partnerships and support for the university’s long-term development agenda.
“Our history is inseparable from Liberia’s national journey,” Maparyan said. “This anniversary challenges us to ensure that the University of Liberia remains fit for purpose in the decades ahead.”
The celebrations are expected to draw participation from government officials, alumni, students, development partners and members of the public in Liberia and the diaspora.
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