2 / 2017 ameu annual report bishop’s foreword2 / 2017 ameu annual report bishop’s foreword s...

2 / 2017 AMEU ANNUAL REPORT

Bishop’s Foreword

Since 1992 we have been charting the course of this University. Since the Liberian Civil war, AME University has been rebuilding lives, creating new stories, providing new opportunities and

expanding existing opportunities throughout the greater Monrovia community.

The vision originally cast was sufficient and we are thankful to those who served before us: Bishop C. Garnett Henning, Bishop Adam J. Richardson, Jr., Bishop Richard F. Norris, Bishop David

R. Daniels and Bishop Clement W. Fugh. AME University with its Board of Trustees has adjusted, re-adjusted and moved forward toward the challenges associated with educating young minds and teaching critical thinking techniques that will ultimately meet the needs of this community.

AME University has added a Graduate School in Ministry and we are moving

ahead with additional offerings in the areas of Communications and Sciences.

Dr. Joseph Isaac is our President and we are proud to announce his contract renewal for

the next 5 years. The Trustees are expanding the capacity of the Board and strategically engaging in visionary initiatives that will positively respond to our central objectives, educational excellence.

COME JOIN US.

TOWARD ENLIGHTENMENT,

E. EARL MCCLOUD, JR.Chairman, Board of Trustees

“To our future students, who may come from Sierra Leone, Nigeria, the Ivory Coast, Ghana or Togo, “look on us.”?

“Look toward us” to meet the challenges ahead.

Greetings to all from the Board of Trustees

of AME University!


President’s IntroductionGreetings, and thanks for reading this AME University 2017

Annual Report. For several strategic planning cycles, we have committed ourselves to not only implementing strategic initiatives, but providing annual reports on our achievements. In just four years, the University has grown in enrollment and programming, and we have expanded our services and offerings to reach more students. The University’s AY 2016-2017 enrollment at the time of this report is 4,392 students. Our planned decision-making strategies have enabled us to leverage our strengths in overcoming several challenges; and converted some of our weaknesses to opportunities.

In this report, some of the University’s challenges, opportunities and accomplishments are highlighted. Amongst many of the achievements, in March 2017, AME University was granted Master’s Degree granting status by the National Commission on Higher Education. While plans are underway to commence construction of the University’s graduate school building, we are preparing to launch the first cohort based 18-month Master of Divinity program. Subsequently, several Executive MBA programs will be launched. In addition, we are planning to add new undergraduate programs in Biology, Social Work, and Information Technology next year.

AME University is known for building relationships and partnerships; this has been proven by successful collaboration with Lead College of Management, Savannah State University, and the Liberia Coca-Cola Bottling Company. The College of Education is pursuing collaboration with Open Society Initiatives for West Africa to establish a Pre-K laboratory for our ECE program. There is potential Collaboration with Guangzhou International Economics College to establish a Chinese Language Institute on campus; and our relationship with Ghana Technology University College is now a major tool for implementing several graduate programs.

Student life and student support services at AMEU are still vibrant. The Academic and Career Counseling Office has been reestablished; Student Internship programs have been strengthened; the University opened a mini-clinic on campus to serve students, faculty and staff; and our Work Study program continues to provide opportunities for all students. Each year, AME University students are introduced to community service by installing community Wells, renovating public toilets, and providing Christmas Gifts to children in neighboring less fortunate communities. The Ezzat Eid Business & Continuing Education Center (BCEC) has become a recognized center for business and industry training.

There is so much happening at AME University; please read on for the highlights.

Sincerely,Joseph T. Isaac, Ed.D

Division of Academic Affairs


The Division of Academic Affairs is responsible for providing oversight for the University’s core academic mission. The Division, headed by a

Vice President, provides leadership for the University’s four colleges, more than 14 academic programs, and 21 degree tracks. The Vice President is also responsible academic partnerships, exchanges, and the successful launch of new graduate programs.

Achievements• For the period under review, Academic Affairs successfully achieved the following goals:

• Reestablished curriculum committee, and completed the review of all curricula

• Revised graduation requirements for some programs to strengthen program, improve on learning outcomes, and remove duplicity

• Developed, and implemented new academic programs; including Bachelor of Social Work, scheduled to commence in First Semester 2017; Bachelor of Science in Biology, to commence in Second Semester 2018; and the Master of Divinity, to be rolled out in First Semester 2017

• Conducted capacity building for faculty and department heads, including an organized conduct of workshops for academic department chairs, and designing new format of course syllabi

• New policies and guidelines were developed for faculty promotion, attendance; procedures were developed to enhance test administration

• New partnership was formed with Ghana Technology University College to co-deliver several academic programs, and exchange faculty, staff and students.

Institutional AdvancementEvery University needs an “Advancement” champion! Thanks

to Ms. Charlene Carey, AMEU will become more visible, and we hope to create more active partnerships. Charlene is working on new branding and marketing strategies for the University’s new Graduate School, among other activities. In her roles as Assistant VP for Institutional Advancement & Director of the University Foundation; Charlene is also responsible for pushing the Foundation Board priorities.


AME University is pleased to announce that our Graduate School will begin inSeptember 2017. After a tremendous amount of work, AMEU has received approvalfrom NCHE to grant Graduate Degrees. These graduate degree programs are tailored(but not limited) to the working adult. Majority of the courses will be in the eveningsand on the weekends. We have collaborated with Ghana Technology UniversityCollege, in Ghana to participate in a faculty and student exchange program, whichwill bring some of their faculty to AMEU to deliver lectures and conduct research.The first program to be introduce is the Masters of Divinity with the following programsbeing introduced subsequently:

Theological Studies:Master of DivinityMaster of TheologyMaster of Ministry

Executive MBA:Corporate and Public FinanceManagement and CommerceProcurement and Supply Chain ManagementManagement Information System

International Relations:Foreign Service LeadershipInternational Development

Graduate School


Ezzat Eid Business & Continuing Education Center

The Ezzat Eid Business & Continuing Education Center (BCEC) is proud to report the center is working meticulously to provide integrated solutions and customized

training for professionals. The BCEC is concentrating on training businesses, NGOs, Public and Private entities, banks and various high schools in a career orientation program. We hope to extend our services to the 15 counties of Liberia in the near future.

The BECE has conducted sequential

training programs for Monrovia City

Cooperation to provide effective customer

service and hospitality management for

The Palm Spring Hotel, Jandy’s Little

Paradise, Cemenco and Royal Grand

Hotel. BCEC is now offering computer

training programs at a minimal cost.


Admissions, Registration & RecordsThe Department of Admissions, Registration and Records has worked tirelessly to

develop a filing system that will allow preserve and protect the University’s records. This will grant past, current, and potential students’ access to their student records in a timely manner.

The department has assessed and implemented the graduation vetting policy that was

created to reduce the students’ involvement in the process which was approximately seven steps to now only one. This also reduces the possibility of manipulating the process, which would have allowed an unqualified student to graduate. As a result, the university can now be assured that all graduating students have met the graduation requirements. We have succeeded in pre-vetting more than 400 senior students for graduation. Launched the pre-vetting of junior, sophomore and freshman students.

We are currently using a new Smart School a new user friendly software system which allows for an effective registration, graduation process and record keeping system.


Enrollment ManagementConducted a successful Open House program with the participation of the following department

Chairs: English, Political Science, Theology, Mass Communication, Christian Education, Counseling, Early Childhood Education, and Primary and Secondary Education. AMEU hosted for its 2nd Vacation Bridge program beginning with visitation to (25) high schools in and around Monrovia. Each school received 10 applications with the sum of 250 applicants. After vetting, 60 students were selected and accepted into the program.


Student Support ServicesThe office of Student Support Services has established

a new function, which focuses on academic and career counseling. We have officially reactivated and strengthened the Student Internship Program where we currently have twelve (12) students’ interns and seven (7) intern graduates who have been placed in two (2) year job placement/training and one student was hired as an employee at AMEU. The department is also working with the U.S. Embassy to develop internship opportunities for students. The university nominated five (5) female students for US women leadership training in the US; Two (2) of the students were accepted.

Student Services has strengthened the student activities by expanding the AMEU Athletics & Arts scholarships. 15 credits tuition waiver awarded to 10 committed athletes & performers, we have

reorganized the university Debate Team.

LibraryThe Library has been undergoing some renovations. We

have renovated an office space for Assistant Director. We have re-organized the library to accommodate four (4) computers for student research, there are now periodical racks, dictionary stands and a new shelf that hosts donations from the U.S. Embassy. The U.S. Embassy donated periodicals and reference materials to AME University. The AME University library staff visited the libraries of the U.S. Embassy and University of Liberia for a training and to

observe their functionality.


• Secured MBA Scholarships under the terms of an MOU between AMEU and LEAD College of Management of Kerala, India for (5) years with (2) scholarships each year.

• Served as Representative for AMEU for private higher education institutions in Liberia for the Regional Dialogue for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

• Crafted and implemented Standardized Data Collection Forms for ALL Departments

• Facilitated the Coca-Cola Scholars’ Market Research Strategy for LCCBC, and successfully mentored scholars to present their projects

• Conducted Student-Faculty Evaluation during semesters I & II.

• Reviewed, assessed and presented the university’s 3-year Academic Strategy during the 2016 Strategic Retreat.

• Conducted workshops and trainings for capacity building for selected LCCBC employees on Strategic Planning and Basic Customer Service Skills.

• Conducted workshops on Research Methodology to Senior Students with Research

• Facilitated the Coca-Cola Scholars to present

an Abstract Research Proposal on a “Tracers Study” of AME University graduates (2007-2016)

• Conducted a Market Survey for Monroe Chicken.

• Appointed as member of the Curriculum Review Committee.

• Develops and updates the University Fact Sheets each semester.

• Conducted a Traffic Analysis of students for first semester 2016 class schedules.

• Designed and conducted Needs Assessment Survey for Students with Physical Disabilities.

• Attended research plenary sessions with Coca-Cola Scholars on “Micro Insurance” research presentation hosted by SPARK, Dutch NGO.

• Conducted “LAW+YOU” research for Child Steps International (CSI) under the terms of an MOU with AMEU.

Innovation & Research


During the period under review, the Department of Human Resources performed six of its essential

functions (recruitment, safety, employee relations, compensation and benefits, compliance, training and development) which supports the diverse AMEU community.

Human Resources

RecruitmentWe successfully recruited Dr. Timothy K. Kie, Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Jerome Griffins, Dean, Education College, Ms. Charlene A. Carey, Assistant Vice President for Institutional Advancement, Mr. Anthony K. Hammond, Director of Budget and Reconciliation, Mrs. Massa G.V. McKay, Lead Nurse, Ms. Agnes S. Fokoe, Nurse and others. This signified the key role played in the AMEU recruitment drive: advertised job postings, screen applicants, conducted preliminary interviews and coordinated the hiring efforts along with senior administrator responsible for making the final selection of candidates.

Employee Relations

At AME University, the human resources discipline which focuses on strengthening

the employer-employee relationship through measuring job satisfaction, employee engagement and resolving workplace conflict. These obligations continues to be implemented at AMEU through sharing of information, walk - in meetings, open dialogue, emails and teleconferencing. We send text messages to greet and inquire on the wellbeing of absent employees, ensure that the bulletin

boards are updated with current events relating to the University and distribute flyers to remind employees on activities.

Compensation and BenefitsThe Department of Human Resources had certified each position within the University by putting in place a salary grade/step policy based on qualification, experience, job responsibility, and the level of decision making. The salary structure is intended to attract and maintain a high caliber of personnel that will bring distinction and recognition to the university. In furtherance, the salary range shall take into consideration an annual percentage increase and will be reviewed periodically.

There is a retirement savings fund plan that is currently worked on by the Department of Human Resources for AMEU employees which is similar to the 401(k) plan in the United States.

That retirement savings plan will be offered to the employees through AME University. How will it work? The employee decides how much he/she would like to contribute to the 401 (k) plan, and the employer - AME University puts the money into a separate account on behalf of the employee. The deductions will be made directly through payroll.


Compliance

The Department of Human Resources familiarized the employees of the AME

University with the policies and procedures of this institution as enshrined in the Republic of Liberia Labor law as well as the AME University faculty/staff Handbook. However, as there continues to be a shift in the legal requirements and government reporting regulations, the Department of Human Resources has been following closely and has revise some policies as well as crafted new ones to be in compliance.

Training and Development

TTraining and development provided by the Department of Human Resources have

been intended to increase the knowledge, skills,

education, and abilities of AME University employees. At AMEU, the human resources development process begins upon the hiring of a new employee and will continue throughout that employee’s tenure with the University: Firstly, by providing new employees extensive orientation training to help them transition into the University’s culture, implementing the leadership training required for newly hired and promoted employees on topics such as performance management and how to handle employee relations at the department level. There are professional development opportunities through the “Growth Scholarship “for an employee who wishes to obtain an advance degree. Programs such as tuition assistance and tuition deferred for faculties and staffs are considered within the University as a component of the HR training and development area.

SECURITYThe African Methodist Episcopal University

Private Security is pleased to report the construction of a new parking lot for staff and students. The new parking lot helps to alleviate the constraints of limited parking and adds a second level of security for vehicles.

The fire drill was intended to provide fire safety training methods. The training was very

practical in nature, it created a situation which replicated an actual fire. Ideally, when fire alarms go off, employees, students, and visitors, who are within the University premises, must evacuate in an orderly manner, providing the fire fighters ample space to extinguish the fire.

New security booths were constructed at the front entrance of the BAM Building and

the university parking lot where in time of bad weather, the security guards will be stationed and sheltered from the storm.

AME University has an obligation to provide a safe environment for its employees and

students. In September of 2016, a team from the Liberia National Fire Service conducted its first fire drill for AME University employees and students.


Information Technology

GENERAL SERVICES

The Information Technology Department was able to successfully ensure the configuration

and installation of computers for the Foundation Board and the LIBTELCO sponsored computer labs. The LIBTELCO computer lab is currently being used for electronic entrance exams at the university. IT is proud to have participated in the formulation of the curriculum for the Information Technology, BSc.

The General Services Department continues to work diligently to maintain the daily functions of the university. These are some of the accomplishments within

the department for 2017:

• Construction of a Parking Lot

• Refurbished of faculty lounge with 20 computer desks, 20 visitor chairs and water dispenser

• Purchase of Water dispensers for students in the Study Hall, Library and BAM building

• Ongoing renovation for the relocation of Admissions’ office

• Painting of the Exterior of Hatcher Hall & Annexes

• Secured the connection of Liberia Electricity Corporation


Financial ServicesDuring the period under review, the University commenced the 2015-

2016 fiscal year with a brought forward net income of $354,274. Revenue sources were: tuition and fees, other income, subsidies (GOL and AMEC), and auxiliary unit enterprises. Total revenue collected during the period totaled $2,443,901 with the highest revenue coming out of tuition.

Fifty-three percent of the overall expenditures represent personnel services followed by goods and services with thirty-five percent. Six percent of total

expenditures were associated with capital. There were no amounts expended for research and grants support during the period.The university owns a total assets of $5,011,763 (current assets = $1,024,826; fixed assets = $3,986,937). Obligations to vendors and other suppliers equal $15,426. The University net worth is $4,996,337.


Foundation BoardThe Foundation Board held its first fundraising dinner in April 2016, all proceeds went to the renovation and equipping of a computer lab on the AMEU campus. The computer lab has been fully renovated, with 20 computers, a white board and a projector. The lab provides a comfortable learning environment for our scholars.

Mini-Clinic Patient DataSecond Semester2017

Patient Visits • Total Patient Visits 630 • Students Treated • Staff Treated 44 • Total Patients Treated

Cases Treated and Referred • Malaria, typhoid 188 • Other Infections 113 • Injury, etc. • Hospital referrals 119

166

511

467


Board of Trustees

Foundation Board

Bishop E. EARL McCloud, Jr.14th Episcopal District AMECChair of the Board

Hon. Josphine George FrancisRepresentativeDistrict N0 1, Montserrado CountyVice Chair of the Board

Dr. Joseph T. IsaacPresident, AMEU UniversityExecutive Officer of the Board

Dr. S. P. CooperFounder & Owner, Tera Villa GardenBoard Treasurer

Mr. John DaviesPresidentLBDIChairman, Finance Committee

Dr. Charles A. ClarkeFormer Chair, Unity PartyChair, Board Planning & Develop-ment Committee

Hon. Philip A. Z. Banks, IIIAssociate JusticeSupreme Court of LiberiaChair, Board Academic Committee

Dr. Ezzat EidPresident, World Lebanese Culture UnionChair, International Development Committee

Hon. Daniel CheaFormer Minister of Defense

Hon. Everett ClarkOperations Specialist(Assistant Resident Representative) UNDP-Liberia

Mrs. Belinda YahwonPresident, Women Missionary society AMEC & Proprietress, Webs International School

Rev. Alvin AttahPastor, Eliza Turner AME Church

Cllr. Anne Wesley SwenLegal Counsel, UNMIL

Hon. Christopher NeyorPresident & CEOMorweh Energy Group, Inc

Dr. Ophelia HoffOphelia Travel Agency

Mrs. Clara Doe MvogoMayor, City of MonroviaMonrovia City Corporation

Mr. Moses QuoimieThe Liberia Business Association &CEO, Prospect Trading Corporation

Mr. Robert PynePresidentAME University Alumni Association

Hon. Dewitt vonBallmoosDirector GeneralNational Social Security Corporation

Mr. Seth Adu-BaahCountry ManagerLiberia Coca-Cola Bottling Company

Mr. Garfield MasonLay President14th Episcopal District, AME Church

Hon. George WernerMinisterMinistry of EducationEx-Officio

Mrs. D. Sheba BrownDirector of Administration Central Bank of LiberiaMonrovia, LiberiaCHAIR

Mr. Amin ModadOwner/CEOBella Casa HotelSinkor, MonroviaVICE CHAIR

Mr. Marwan EidVice PresidentCity Builders, IncMonrovia, LiberiaTREASURER

Mrs. Theresa DaviesOwnerSeatran Inc.Monrovia, Liberia

Cllr. Rosemarie JamesCounselor-at-LawMonrovia, Liberia

Mr. Roland GiddingsDeputy MinisterMinistry of Public WorksRepublic of Liberia

Mr. Tony HageOwnerCatco Consolidated, Inc.Monrovia, Liberia

Rev. Alvin AttahPastor

Eliza Turner Memorial AME ChurchMonrovia, Liberia

Mrs. Evon Bright-HardingOwnerShacks Entertainment CenterMonrovia, Liberia

Mrs. Felicia WashingtonComptrollerAME UniversityMonrovia, Liberia

Dr. Joseph T. IsaacPresident, AME University

Ms. Charlene A. CareyAsst. VP for Institutional AdvancementAME University

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