LIBERIA – Mr. Philip N. Wesseh Academic Excellence Journalism Award has been established in the Department of Communication and Media Studies at the Prof. Amos C. Sawyer College of Social Sciences and Humanities, University of Liberia. The Academic award is intended to uphold the legacy of an illustrious journalist and an icon of Print Journalism in Africa, particularly Liberia.
One way of remembering an illustrious Liberian whose impacts have practically changed millions of people and preserving his legacy is through the establishment of an award. The Award is in memory of our fallen statesman, alumnus, and former Part-time lecturer, the Department of Communication and Media Studies, University of Liberia.
The disclosure was made by the Dean of Prof. Amos C. Sawyer College of Social Sciences and Humanities (formerly Liberia College), Prof. Dr. Josephus M. Gray who was authorized by the President of the University, Prof. Dr. Julius Julukon Sarwolo Nelson, Jr. (Due to the UL president official visit trip to the United States of America) to represent him at the funeral of the fallen Liberia media icon, Mr. Philip N. Wesseh, a part-time instructor and alumnus of the University of Liberia.
Dr. Gray delivered an emotional tribute on behalf of the entire University of Liberia family including the Board of Trustees, President, Vice Presidents, and Associate Vice Presidents, Faculty Senate, Alumni, Council of Deans, staff, and the entire students’ population at the University of Liberia. He extended the UL President’s deepest condolences to the family of the fallen Liberian media hero
Dr. Gray further stated: “Our hearts ache with the loss of Mr. Wesseh and we the UL family, send our prayers to the entire Wesseh family, as we honor the life and legacy. “Philip meant so much to the University of Liberia”, Dr. Gray noted. It is quite painful to say goodbye not because he is going far away but because he is are no more. Philip is celebrated today because of his exemplify life on earth. He was a GOOD man, a man with a great heart of service.
The tribute reads: “Indeed, Philip N. Wesseh was Iconic of journalism in post-war Liberia. He had helped elevate the status of journalism from the rather shady and dumping ground for job seekers to a respectable profession.”
Dr. Gray told the congregation and the Wesseh’s family that the academic excellence award in journalism is given to an outstanding journalist who contributes to journalism, free press, academia, open society, the University, the community, and human development.
According to Dr. Gray, the late Philip N. Wesseh has left a great stamp in the hearts of many persons. He described Mr. Wesseh as a good man and added that the late Philip N. Wesseh won the respect of thousands of Liberians for his adherence to his professionalism, objectivity, balance, and facts and above all was trustworthy.
He took his role seriously, and practically changed everyone who pass through his arms at The INQUIRER newspaper. His life was well spent, and his influence on everyone will forever remain. Philip N. Wesseh.
You may be gone but you have left a great legacy for us… Rest on boss.
It is difficult for me to come to terms with the fact that you are gone. Rest on boss.
Thank you for always encouraging and challenging us to do more. Rest on boss
Thank you Philip for being the kind of good boss you were Thank you for a life well lived
