The University Council of the United States International University-Africa has appointed professor Margee Ensign as the new vice chancellor effective September 1, 2022.
In her new roles, at the USIU, prof Ensign will oversee a broad spectrum of activities including the five academic schools, student affairs, admission, registrations, library, faculty development, information technology, operations, and the implementation of the 2021-2026 strategic plan.
Prof. Ensign was a successful vice chancellor in Nigeria for 12 years and in the US where she was a formidable ambassador and successful fundraiser. According to USIU Chair Kris Ole-Senanu, her outstanding experience in this field will enable her to address the challenges and opportunities for USIU-Africa.
“She brings an undoubted commitment, passion, and vision around deepening international and intercultural education in Africa: it has been at the heart of her teaching, research, publications, and administrative life, and has led her to experience working in numerous international environments including Rwanda, Uganda, and Nigeria,’’ Mr. Ole – Senanu said in a statement.
Prof. Ensign is the incumbent President of the American University of Nigeria (AUN) in Yola, after her return to the institution last year, where she had been President from 2010 to 2017 before becoming the vice chancellor of Dickinson College, Carlisle, Pennsylvania in 2017 to 2021.
She was also an Associate Provost for International Initiatives, Dean and Professor, School of International Studies, the University of The Pacific from 1999-2010.
“She holds a Ph.D. from the University of Maryland in International Politics and Economics,’’ She is also a renowned author of several books including Rwanda: History and Hope Confronting Genocide: Dehumanization, Denial, and Strategies for Prevention.
Prof Ensign has presented at numerous international fora, including the World Economic Forum, the American Council on Education, and US Congress. She was also a panel member at the Commonwealth Women’s Forum in Rwanda which focused on gender equity and education.
“Prof. Ensign particularly enjoys interacting with students and with all members of the university and is looking forward to engaging with the USIU-Africa community when she arrives in September,’’ reads part of the statement.