MONROVIA – The Philip N. Wesseh Excellence Journalism Award, established by the University of Liberia through the Amos C. Sawyer College of Social Sciences and Humanities, honors and recognizes an outstanding journalist within the University community who, through the practice of quality journalism and an unwavering commitment to the truth, performed exceptionally during the 2025–2026 academic year.
The winner will be announced today, Wednesday, February 25, 2026, during the University of Liberia’s 105th Commencement Convocation in Fendall.
The prestigious award, which celebrates excellence in journalism, was established in memory of an illustrious Liberian and icon of print journalism, Mr. Philip N. Wesseh.
Atty. Wesseh was an alumnus and part-time instructor of the Department of Mass Communication, now the Department of Communication and Media Studies, under the Amos C. Sawyer College at the University of Liberia, where he earned a BA degree in Mass Communication in 2002 and later obtained an LLB degree in Law. He practiced professional journalism for over 40 uninterrupted years, rising from reporter to Managing Editor.
The College will on Wednesday confer BA and BSW degrees on 170 candidates, comprising 96 males and 74 females. The breakdown includes 3 graduates in English, 17 in Communication and Media Studies, 13 in Demography, 2 in Geography, 5 in Political Science, 20 in Social Work, and 110 in Sociology.
Miss Goodness Sart of the Department of Communication and Media Studies placed second among more than 1,300 candidates of the 105th graduating class. She earned a CGPA of 3.826 and graduated Summa Cum Laude.
Since 1862, the College has traditionally served students pursuing four-year undergraduate bachelor’s degrees in highly respected academic and professional disciplines. Over the years, it has emerged as a center of excellence in humanities and social sciences education.
The College seeks to achieve distinguished levels of excellence in teaching, learning, and research by transmitting knowledge and understanding needed to transform Liberian society and contribute to global development. It assists students in remaining enrolled, realizing their full potential, and progressing successfully from admission to graduation.
The PNW Excellence Journalism Award is intended to uphold the legacy of an outstanding journalist and a towering figure in print journalism in Liberia and across Africa. One meaningful way of preserving his legacy and recognizing his impact on millions is through the establishment of this award.
Philip meant so much to the University of Liberia. He was a good man with a great heart for service, and his contributions have left an enduring mark on the hearts of many.
